For the 2021 Nunavut territorial election, the Nunavut Association of Non-Profit Organizations (NANPO) collectively sent a letter to each of the MLA candidates asking their perspective on a number of questions of importance to the non-profit sector and Nunavummiut at large. We have compiled their unedited responses here.
2021−ᒥ ᓂᕈᐊᕐᓂᕐᒧᑦ ᓄᓇᕗᒻᒥ, ᓄᓇᕗᒻᒥ ᑲᑐᔾᔨᖃᑎᒌᖏᑦ ᑮᓇᐅᔭᓕᐅᕋᓱᐊᖅᑎᐅᒐᑎᒃ ᑎᒥᐅᔪᑦ (NANPO) ᐊᐅᓪᓚᑎᑦᓯᓯᒪᔪᑦ ᐊᑐᓂᑦ ᒪᓕᒐᓕᐅᖅᑎᐅᓂᕐᒧᑦ ᓂᕈᐊᕋᑦᓴᓄᑦ ᖃᓄᕐᓕ ᐃᓱᒪᖃᕐᒪᖔᑕ ᖃᑦᓯᒐᓛᓂᒃ ᐊᐱᖅᑯᑕᐅᔪᓂᒃ ᐱᒻᒪᕆᐅᔪᓂᒃ ᑮᓇᐅᔭᓕᐊᕋᓱᐊᖅᑎᐅᖏᑦᑐᓄᑦ ᑎᒥᐅᔪᓄᑦ ᓄᓇᕗᒻᒥᐅᓄᓪᓗ ᐃᓘᓐᓈᒍᑦ. ᑲᑎᖅᓱᖅᓯᒪᔭᕗᑦ ᓇᑲᑎᖅᑕᐅᓯᒪᙱᑦᑐᑦ ᑭᐅᔾᔪᑎᐅᔪᑦ ᐅᕙᓂ.
1. Non-profits often have inconsistent and unpredictable sources of funding and support. What can we do to provide some stability to the non-profit sector?
ᑮᓇᐅᔭᐅᓕᐅᕋᓱᐊᖅᑎᐅᙱᑦᑐᑦ ᑲᔪᓯᓚᔪᓂᒃ ᓂᕆᐅᓇᑦᓴᐃᓐᓇᖏᑦᑐᓂᓪᓗ ᑮᓇᐅᔭᖃᖅᑎᑕᐅᕙᒻᒪᑕ ᐃᑲᔪᖅᑑᑎᓂᓪᓗ. ᖃᓄᐃᒋᐊᒃᑲᓐᓂᕈᓐᓇᖅᑭᑕ ᒪᑭᑕᒍᓐᓇᖁᓪᓗᒋᑦ ᑮᓇᐅᔭᐅᓕᐅᕋᓱᐊᖅᑎᐅᙱᑦᑐᑦ?
Daniel Qavvik, Hudson Bay: "The Government of Nunavut can find stability by providing funding and table a budget at each sitting at the legislative assembly for the non-profit organizations. Supporting non-profit organizations can be in a form of creating housing units for the non-profit organizations to eliminate competitions over housing by the territorial and federal government staffing units."
Joanasie Akumalik, Iqaluit-Manirajak: "I think the inconsistency and the unpredictable sources of funding and support will continue, as long as there is federal government imposing unnecessary paperwork. Unless the non-profit organizations, stakeholders, different levels of governments, draft policies to create consistent and funding levels to normalize across the board, should ease the difficulty."
Noah Papatsie, Iqaluit-Niaqunnguu: "Creating Inclusion Work Force and training for both workers and Community with Culture and Language written or verbal and welling being as Mental Health will be a priority in my Top to do List. Creating jobs it will as it proved with other non profit organizations and barrier free surrounind in remote places Local people places a BIG ROLL.."
P.J. Akeeagok, Iqaluit-Niaqunnguu: "I have spoken to a number of non-profits in Iqaluit during my campaign and they have told me that the answer for them is core-funding. In my platform I have called for long-term, predictable core funding for existing mental health services and programs offered by groups such as Tukisigarvik and Ilitaqsiniq. I believe these essential services deserve stable funding to continue their important work."
Christa Kunuk, Iqaluit-Sinaa: "Some stability we can do to support them is lobby and encourage multi-year agreements so that they do not have to continually go back every fiscal year and takes the worry out of the availability of funding.
The process to receive the funding needs to be more accountable and the funding needs to be released quicker to the non-profit, so in the ends it’s not the non-profit having to rush to spend funding.
Ensuring/supporting/securing infrastructure, to do their operations and programming. It will help eliminate the stress of always trying to stay afloat."
Janet Pitsiulaaq Brewster, Iqaluit-Sinaa: "This has been a particularly challenging time for non-profits across Canada, because of the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent closures of public gatherings. The programs provided by non-profits are essential to community. When we look at other non-profit networks they too share the same concerns, and in Ontario for example they are recommending the Ontario government adopt a stabilization fund for the non-profit sector to ensure that non-profits and charities can help rebuild the economy and communities. Having stable funding allows organizations to plan for the long-term, including how to strengthen their capacity deliberately and strategically. Organizations cannot build capacity if they are constantly worrying about where their funds are coming from and whether they can continue their programs and services. One-year grants create a piecemeal approach to both programmatic and infrastructure growth. I too believe in the support and stabilization of non-profits and as an MLA it would be a priority to advocate for full-caucus of the legislative assembly review the impacts placed on non-profits and determine an approach that could help boost this sector, including committing to multi-year funding for non-profits to help with stabilizing services and lessen the burden of financial reporting and creating annual proposals."
Jeff Ungalaq Maurice, Iqaluit-Sinaa: "During this campaign, I took a lot of time to meet with a number of non-profits including Tukisigarvik and the Qajuqturvik Community Food Centre. What I heard is that these essential non-profits need stable core-funding to do their work. I know that we can’t address the issue of mental health supports or food insecurity without partnering with such organizations. Therefore, I am committed to advocating for stable funding to keep their doors open so that Nunavummiut have a place to turn to when in need."
George Hickes, Iqaluit-Tasiluk: "The simple answer would be to say “increase funding”. But from what I understand, for some non-profits, a lack of funding is not the issue – it’s the administrative burden of accessing it that is problematic.
"Funding for non-profits comes from a variety of sources – governments, NGOs, foundations, donations – and is funding is secured using different processes – applications, grants, contributions, direct funding, etc. – at different times of the year. Not knowing how, where and when your funding will flow can be a huge barrier, particularly for small non-profits and community start-ups.
"Consulting the non-profit sector in how to reduce the administrative “red tape” is important to better understand where the Government of Nunavut can make that process easier.
"Engaging non-profit organization and community groups in the GN’s own business planning process and budget cycles is important too, so that GN funding streams can be coordinated and provided in the right way at the right time.
"Non-profits know their operational needs best. That’s why I won’t prescribe a specific method or approach but rather invite the NANPO to offer your advice, experience and solutions on how the GN can better support you. I am committed to listening and learning more about your needs, and taking meaningful action wherever I can."
James T. Arreak, Iqaluit-Tasiluk: "The Government already has a funding structure in place to support Non-Profit Organizations (NPOs) access funding for O&M, Health & Safety, and start-up contributions. Organizational stability is dependent on the quality and strengths of the internal strategic elements of the organizations.
"Most of the non-profits in Nunavut assist greatly in serving the people that live here. I acknowledge the many hours spent by volunteers who are driven by their NPO goals and objectives whole heartedly. NPOs greatly enhance the quality of life in Nunavut. And compliment Government delivery of programs and services.
What I envision, from a government perspective, that would aim to enhance the stability of the non-profit sector would be to diversify funding pools or revenue streams. This could be addressed by adding another funding branch to meet NPOs unique needs like capital projects. These could be structured to be a one-time access, or possibly project-based funding approaches. These branches however would be guided by criteria where business plans with project objectives would be needed to substantiate access. Review and approval would be another part of a process."
Jonathan Chul-Hee Min Park, Iqaluit-Tasiluk: "A coordinated strategy for the Government of Nunavut to work together with the non-profit sector via NANPO to ensure that all non-profit societies working for the social good of Nunavummiut can run organizations without having to worry about the sustainability of the operation. The creation of NANPO already simplifies the situation for the Government of Nunavut to more efficiently work with the non-profit sector in distributing funding through contribution agreements. I applaud the initiative taken by the non-profit sector. I would advocate for the Government of Nunavut to proactively work together with NANPO to create a stable source of non-profit funding from the Government of Nunavut."
Bobby Anavilok, Kugluktuk: "Give full access to licensing and promotions for fund-raising capabilities"
Tagak Curley, Rankin Inlet South: "The role of charities in most democratic countries, in that Nunavut is apart of, are very important for our citizens. Here in Nunavut our government must define the role of charitable groups more clearly and if all possible assigned certain functions and authority to charity groups for the services they can provide rather than the department or agency of Government. More public discussion on those possible privatization of services without increasing cost of services would be my preference. Ok do not wish to name those that could devolved at this time but public review should."
2. Lack of housing is an issue that affects the majority of Nunavummiut, and since most non-profits are not in a position to maintain their own staff housing they have a limited pool of applicants from which to find staff. What do you think is necessary to create an equitable housing system that does not favour one employer over another?
ᐃᓪᓗᖃᑦᓯᐊᖏᓐᓂᖅ ᐃᓱᒫᓘᑎᓪᓚᕆᐅᔪᖅ ᐊᑦᑐᐃᓯᒪᑦᓱᓂᓗ ᐃᓘᓐᓇᒐᓚᖏᓐᓂᒃ ᓄᓇᕗᒻᒥᐅᓂᒃ, ᐊᒻᒪᓗ ᑮᓇᐅᔭᓕᐅᕋᓱᐊᖅᑎᐅᙱᑦᑐᑦ ᓇᒻᒥᓂᖅ ᐃᖅᑲᓇᐃᔭᖅᑎᒥᓐᓄᑦ ᐃᓪᓗᑦᓴᖃᕈᓐᓇᖏᒻᒪᑕ ᐊᒥᓲᖃᑦᑕᖏᑦᑐᑦ ᐃᖅᑲᓇᐃᔮᖅᑖᕋᓱᐊᖅᑐᑦ ᐃᖅᑲᓇᐃᔭᖅᑎᑦᓴᐃᓐᓂᐊᓕᖅᓱᓂ. ᖃᓄᕐᓕ ᐃᓱᒪᕕᑦ ᐊᔾᔨᒌᑎᑦᓯᓂᓕᒻᒥᒃ ᐃᓪᓗᖃᖅᑎᑕᐅᔪᖃᕋᔭᕐᓂᖅᐸᑦ ᐃᓪᓗᖃᖅᑎᒍᒪᔭᑐᐃᓐᓇᕐᒥᓂᒃ ᐃᖅᑲᓇᐃᔭᖅᑎᒥᒃ ᐃᓪᓗᖃᖅᑎᑦᓯᖃᑦᑕᖏᓪᓗᑎᒃ?
Daniel Qavvik, Hudson Bay: "We need a system where empty housing units in Nunavut are used and make them available to be used by all members in Nunavut communities who seeks to maintain a housing for a staff member whether it’s the government staff or non-profit staff members or just general public."
Joanasie Akumalik, Iqaluit-Manirajak: "Stakeholders, different levels of government and NGOs should be invited to discuss options and opportunities. Yes. Creating an equitable housing system should be explored and create a strategy how to implement the system."
Noah Papatsie, Iqaluit-Niaqunnguu: "Working with non profits and other sectors =businesses/governments/federal by making Inclusive a priority where people with challenges and barriers can have equitable access, maybe perhaps create Basic Housing Income for Strategy Plan for the future and affordable housing for everyone as we are in remote place we need to support our environment to."
P.J. Akeeagok, Iqaluit-Niaqunnguu: "Access to affordable housing is a key component of my platform, I am proposing to breakdown the silos between the federal and territorial governments and Inuit organizations to leverage all available resources to build new housing. I am also supporting housing solutions that make home ownership a real option for Nunavummmiut.
"I am open to looking at other models of housing to assist with staff retention at non-profits such as daycares. These are essential jobs that need to be safeguarded."
Christa Kunuk, Iqaluit-Sinaa: "There needs to be a balance and understanding that non-profits/private business and governments play an important role in the territory. The overall goal is for the betterment for all of Nunavummiut, so the non-profits should also be supported in accessing housing for the important role the staff play in the day-to-day lives of Nunavummiut."
Janet Pitsiulaaq Brewster, Iqaluit-Sinaa: "Lack of affordable housing, I believe, is one of the largest barriers to employment and wellness. Our shortage of affordable housing is amplified by the growing population, and high construction and material costs. We know that limited housing challenges access to training and education, and even those that want to relocate to another community for work. There are a number of challenges we face, and we need to continue to work with Canada to invest in affordable housing for Nunavut, and look at territorial policies that ensure every Nunavummiut has access to affordable housing.
"Of particular importance to the non-profit sector is the reliance on volunteers to provide governance and leadership which puts strains on the employees and the volunteers who are often stretched thin providing support to multiple organizations at a time or because of lack of human resources at the organizational level, are doing the work that should be the responsibility of funded employees. Non-profit organizations that are funded by the Government of Nunavut must receive sufficient funding to create comprehensive organizational structures and to offer competitive salaries and employment packages that are on par with GN, Government of Canada and Inuit organizations. In addition, investing in ongoing and wide-ranging governance training and funding for all Nunavummiut in order to grow the skills of community members that are fulfilling much needed leadership roles.
"I am committed to working to expand the Nunavut Housing Corporation’s mandate to work with non-profits and other stakeholders to create other housing programs and options along the housing continuum. I am also committed as MLA to support policy changes that would free up empty staff housing units for community use where possible."
Jeff Ungalaq Maurice, Iqaluit-Sinaa: "In my platform I call for housing for daycare workers to assist in staff retention. In speaking with daycare staff I have been told that access to housing is a huge issue when it comes to keeping staff in these essential jobs.
"I also advocate working in partnership with the federal government and Inuit organizations to build more affordable housing. It’s time for us to all come together to address this significant issue, working in isolation will not achieve the kind of fundamental results we need in Nunavut."
George Hickes, Iqaluit-Tasiluk: "The availability of adequate, safe and affordable housing in Nunavut is this territory’s biggest challenge.
"In Iqaluit and across Nunavut, the demand for housing drastically outweighs the supply in every category – whether it’s public housing, staff housing, private markets or commercial rentals. It is a difficult and delicate balance to address competing housing priorities, while also trying not to disadvantage some housing categories over others with more acute needs.
"As the leaseholder/owner with most of the housing market in Nunavut, the GN has a tremendous impact on availability of private market rentals, which, for organizations like yours, limits your ability to recruit and retain employees. It might be worthwhile to engage the GN on including non-profits to perhaps allow housing subsidies to be considered an eligible expense in funding applications for Nunavut non-profits.
"On a larger scale, increasing our housing stock and expanding housing programs are areas in which I believe that we can and must do more to create a more equitable and sustainable housing market in Nunavut.
"We can increase our housing stock by broadening our partnerships on funding, constructing and maintaining public housing in Nunavut. If re-elected, I would make it a priority to engage partners, such as Nunavut Tunngavik Inc. (NTI) in the planning, funding, and construction of new purpose-built, public housing and elders homes for Inuit. I believe a strong, collaborative partnership with NTI on developing housing could benefit Inuit experiencing homelessness and housing insecurity, and improve our housing availability across the territory.
"More stock brings more opportunity to expand our housing programs. We tried, in the 5th Assembly, to introduce a homeownership program for GN staff that would provide matching funds to assist with the high-cost of purchasing a home, thereby freeing up needed staff housing units to allocate to other priority groups. I was disappointed when this program was voted down, but will continue working to introduce more measures that will make owning a home or accessing affordable housing easier for all Nunavummiut."
James T. Arreak, Iqaluit-Tasiluk: "Employers across Nunavut, including NPOs, struggle competing because housing as a benefit is often not provided. This makes it difficult for NPOs to attract talent. As an employer trying to address housing in Nunavut is very challenging. In my platform, I have proposed a shift in broadening discussions on how to address housing challenges in Nunavut. Every organization, every employer must get involved in collaborating together and thinking together. And the only way to achieve equitable housing is to make housing affordable. It must be supported by a strategy that creates a diverse set of housing options that supports first-time buyers, homeowners, young families, single parents, young people."
Jonathan Chul-Hee Min Park, Iqaluit-Tasiluk: "I would advocate for the Government of Nunavut to work to secure water supplies in as many communities as possible. A limited water supply is often the reason that development of land for more affordable housing and affordable commercial spaces cannot be approved at the municipal level. I would also advocate for regulation of new lot development to ensure that developers must build affordable housing and affordable commercial spaces."
Bobby Anavilok, Kugluktuk: "Shared accommodations and rent payments in a suitable dwelling location."
Tagak Curley, Rankin Inlet South: "Staff housing is a major concerned of all workers in Nunavut. More support for home owners programs is needed. If that were the case it would free up some pressure on public housing.
"Right now the Nunavut government housing Corp home ownership funding assistance is very limited and inadequate. Increasing home ownership funding for downpayment assistance is critical and each community should be provided with counsellors for home ownership funding programs as they are complex for furt time home buyers rather than one counsellor in each headquarters of Nunavut regions.
"Equitable housing should be the guiding principle as you say not favouring Southerners those are discriminatory. Those preferences must be eliminated. Our work forces must be from Nunavutmuit in all public services jobs."
3. Many Nunavummiut and their families struggle with hidden mental health issues, which contribute to the territory’s high rates of poverty, addictions and violence. How do you think we can better address this mental health epidemic?
ᐊᒥᓱᑦ ᓄᓇᕗᒻᒥᐅᑦ ᐃᓚᖏᓪᓗ ᐊᑦᓱᕈᕐᓇᖅᑐᒦᑉᐸᑦᑐᑦ ᐃᔨᖅᓯᒪᔪᒥᒃ ᐃᓱᒪᒃᑰᖅᑐᓂᒃ ᖃᓄᐃᔾᔪᑎᖃᖅᓱᑎᒃ, ᑖᓐᓇᓗ ᐃᑲᔪᓂᕐᓗᑦᓯᒪᓂᖅᐸᐅᑦᓱᓂ ᓄᓇᕗᒻᒥ ᖁᑦᓯᑐᓪᓚᕆᒻᒥᒃ ᐊᔪᖅᓴᕐᓂᖅᑕᖃᖅᓱᓂ, ᐊᔪᓕᕈᑕᐅᕙᑦᑐᓂᒃ ᐱᖃᑦᑕᕐᓂᖅ, ᐋᓐᓂᖅᑎᕆᓂᕐᓗ. ᖃᓄᕐᓕ ᐃᓱᒪᕕᑦ ᑕᒪᓐᓇ ᖃᓄᐃᒋᐊᒃᑲᓐᓂᕈᑎᒋᒍᓐᓇᕐᒪᖔᑦᑎᒍ ᑕᒪᓐᓇ ᐃᓱᒪᒃᑯᑦ ᐊᑲᐃᓪᓕᐅᕐᓂᒻᒪᕆᐊᓗᒃ?
Daniel Qavvik, Hudson Bay: "Food insecurity is one of the biggest issues in Nunavut, we need our stores to have a decent affordable food prices made available to the Inuit people of the north. Housing rate is also a factor to Nunavut’s poverty; many families who are on low income jobs are rated much higher in the housing market and are rated much higher than a subsidy housing opportunities.
"Violence can be addressed by building family violence shelters in Nunavut communities. Living in an isolated community it gets hard for a family who to turn to awhile experiencing family violence in their homes.
"The Government of Nunavut can better address mental health addictions by building treatment centers in Nunavut communities. There needs to be programs and resources in Nunavut communities to treat people with alcohol and drugs addictions, it’s very hard to break the cycle in a small Nunavut community, especially with no programs and resources available to help tackle their addictions."
Joanasie Akumalik, Iqaluit-Manirajak: "Mental health is global, and the territory happens to be one of the targeted group. The creation of the new treatment center is just of the possible way to address this important issue. Using cross-cultural and the model used in southern Canada should be explored more, so that the territory can have options, to have a better mental health resource. Even exploring better suited policies for Nunavut should be reviewed."
Noah Papatsie, Iqaluit-Niaqunnguu: "Our Environment and Surrounding plays a big roll in remote places, each family /Individuals are different and other things such as hearing problem also play same effect or even some worste.Educating tradition and knowledge plus understanding the language and the barriers they face for a learning center or in on land will help with all parties as equality inclusion is our priority together."
P.J. Akeeagok, Iqaluit-Niaqunnguu: "Accessible mental health supports is one of the issues I raise on my platform, as I mentioned above I am advocating for long-term, predictable core funding for existing mental health services and programs offered by groups such as Tukisigarvik and Ilitaqsiniq.
I am also calling for training and resources to hire staff with the language and cultural skills to serve Nunavummiut."
Christa Kunuk, Iqaluit-Sinaa: "The way we can address this mental health epidemic is bringing back land and our environment to support our peoples.
"We have to think outside the colonial concept, that help does not just need to be in an institutional setting. There needs to be more culturally sensitive options, how we traditionally dealt with supporting one another. That being said it will be vital to have western concepts brought into the cultural traditions to help an individual be mindful of the two worlds in which we as Inuit are attempting to function in.
"There are pockets of programming happening around the territory, we don’t need to reinvent the wheel, i.e. Qajuqturvik, Illitaqsiniq, Young Hunters program in Arviat, 28-day land-based addictions treatment in Cambridge Bay. Similar land programs are happening or going to be happening at Ilisaqsivik and Tukisinniarvik Centre. There needs to be more support and funding put into those types of programming."
Janet Pitsiulaaq Brewster, Iqaluit-Sinaa: "The government does run an active campaign “Breaking the Silence” and has several community programs through mental health to assist people. Having said that, we know that systemic barriers must be mitigated, reduced, and removed to move people out of poverty and conditions of violence and help address addictions. I am a big supporter of mental wellness, and I will do everything in my power to see that the government moves quickly on the Nunavut Recovery Centre to provide treatment in Nunavut for addictions and trauma that is lead by Inuit, as well to ensure mental wellness as a key priority of the next government. I will also focus on K-12 education that acknowledges the truth that many of our children are experiencing current and new trauma in addition to growing in families impacted by intergenerational trauma. Creating a trauma-informed education system that wraps around children and families in this knowledge is an important key step to take in breaking the cycle of trauma that impacts many Nunavummiut in our daily lives."
Jeff Ungalaq Maurice, Iqaluit-Sinaa: "In Iqaluit-Sinaa, community safety and wellbeing is a hot-button issue. I heard from many people in my riding that we need more accessible, culturally rooted addiction and mental health supports such as the ones offered by Tukisigarvik.
"I think providing stable funding for such organizations will go a long-way in ensuring that we address the mental health epidemic in Nunavut."
George Hickes, Iqaluit-Tasiluk: "We have heard the calls for more culturally safe and appropriate mental health care here in Nunavut, and are taking action to address them in our territory.
"Two of the most important initiatives I was involved in as Minister of Health was to release Innusivut Anninaqtuq: Nunavut’s Suicide Prevention Strategy Action Plan, in 2017, and the three-pillar plan for Addictions and Trauma Treatment in Nunavut, in 2019.
"I’m proud to have signed the agreement with NTI and Government of Canada to create an addictions and trauma treatment centre in Nunavut and will continue working with partners to ensure this project moves forward successfully.
"While this centre will go a long way to increase in-territory mental health services, and create training and employment opportunities for Inuit to become certified mental health counsellors, clinical services are only one element of care.
"At the heart of both our suicide prevention and addictions treatment plan is the involvement and support of non-profit and community organizations in developing on-the-land and community-based programs and services.
"Having programs and services at the local level that are rooted in our Inuit culture, language and traditions, and help build skills and personal growth, will ultimately lead to better mental health outcomes for the person, and a stronger community as a whole.
"NANPO organizations listed in this letter, along with many more non-profit and community partners across the territory, have been involved in developing and delivering programs that support mental health, promote resilience and provide protective measures for people experiencing poverty, addictions, violence and food insecurity.
"As an MLA and Cabinet Minister, I’ve been a strong advocate to ensure your organizations have the tools, funding and resources you need to continue developing and delivering these services to Nunavummiut. You can count on my support to ensure this important work continues, and that government implements the action plans for suicide prevention and addiction and trauma treatment in Nunavut."
James T. Arreak, Iqaluit-Tasiluk: "There are many causes of mental health issues. First is the lack of housing. Inadequate housing decreases personal safety, increases stress, which contribute to mental health issues. Other causes of mental health issues are trauma and inter-generational trauma. The attempts to cope often turn to unhealthy options where individuals usually develop unhealthy addictions.
"Government also has contributed to escalating poverty. When Government does not invest in people’s employable skills, it has created poverty traps that people are not able to escape from.
"Government must assist people suffering from mental health issues to be able to cope better. Coping with mental illness can have options. There can be better ways to cope through mental illness.
"Focused strategies developed by data driven research can define the mental health needs of those who suffer from mental health. More work is to be done here. Government can also do better at developing support options by utilizing technology. Most Nunavummiut are in remote locations. And technology can facilitate the access of resources for people who would benefit from support."
Jonathan Chul-Hee Min Park, Iqaluit-Tasiluk: "We must invest our resources into expanding the delivery of counselling services and mental health services. We must build an addictions and treatment centre in Nunavut so that Nunavummiut with mental health issues do not have to leave the territory in order to get adequate treatment for their mental health."
Bobby Anavilok, Kugluktuk: "Provide housing and workshops and programs on self-employment for individuals of age."
Tagak Curley, Rankin Inlet South: "Mental health issues effect many Nunavutmuit. It's a real pain. Sending out previous elders is not the answer."
4. In addition to mental health challenges, many families are impacted by disabilities and face several barriers to improving their quality of life. How can we better support families’ access to culturally-relevant, consistent and quality supports without having to relocate family members to the south?
ᖄᖓᒍᑦᑕᐅᖅ ᐃᓱᒪᒃᑯᑦ ᐊᑲᕐᕆᔮᖏᓐᓂᕐᒧᑦ ᐊᑦᓱᕈᕐᓇᖅᑐᑦ, ᐊᒥᓱᑦ ᐃᓚᒌᑦ ᐊᑦᑐᖅᑕᐅᓯᒪᒻᒥᒻᒪᑕ ᐊᔪᕈᑎᓕᓐᓄᑦ ᓵᙵᑦᓯᓪᓗᑎᓪᓗ ᐊᐳᖅᑕᕈᑎᓂᒃ ᐱᕚᓪᓕᕈᑕᐅᒐᔭᖅᑑᒐᓗᐊᑦ ᖃᐅᑕᒫᑦ ᐃᓅᓯᖏᓐᓄᑦ. ᖃᓄᖅ ᐃᑲᔪᖅᑐᒃᑲᓐᓂᕈᖅᑲᕗᑦ ᑖᒃᑯᐊ ᐃᓚᒌᑦ ᐊᑐᐃᓐᓇᖃᖅᑎᑦᓯᕕᐅᓗᑎᒃ ᐱᖅᑯᓯᕐᒧᑦ ᐊᑦᑐᐊᔪᓂᒃ, ᑲᔪᓯᑦᓯᐊᖅᑐᓂᒃ ᐃᑲᔪᖅᑐᖅᑕᐅᑦᓯᐊᕐᓂᐅᔪᓂᒃ ᓄᑦᑎᖅᑕᐅᒋᐊᑐᙱᓪᓗᑎᒃ ᐃᓚᒌᑦ ᖃᓪᓗᓈᑦ ᓄᓇᖓᓐᓄᑦ?
Daniel Qavvik, Hudson Bay: "By building basic infrastructures. Rehabilitation centers are our territory’s most important infrastructural development we desperately need. We can better help our communities to culturally-relevant situations by building basic infrastructures in Nunavut communities. There are so many inuktut fluent individuals in Nunavut and we will continue to have young inuit finishing their post secondary educations, if we get these important infrastructures in Nunavut we can start seeing less communication barriers in our territory as 85% of our population in Nunavut are inuit. By building these important infrastructures the Government of Nunavut can create jobs in Nunavut for Nunavut inuits and in the long run our government can boost hiring inuktut fluent individuals that can better support families in Nunavut communities."
Joanasie Akumalik, Iqaluit-Manirajak: "There seems to be a flaw in the directives/policy with relocating family members to the south and I think that flaw should be reviewed and provide input from the stakeholders (families, etc.). Even improving the communication system would help the families to better understand the system and why the family members are sent south. Not all families go through the pain of losing family members being sent south, some probably benefit being sent south."
Noah Papatsie, Iqaluit-Niaqunnguu: "Guiding is the principle as if we do we can have better outcome, most need to have access and most don’t so information from the community/city is very important supporting and inclusive communications as we live in remote place our priority is Safety .Learning from each other and our health as always been part in our daily lives and support."
P.J. Akeeagok, Iqaluit-Niaqunnguu: "As I mentioned above, training more staff to provide these services in Nunavut is key. We simply need more individuals with the cultural competence and language skills required to serve our communities at home."
Christa Kunuk, Iqaluit-Sinaa: "As previously stated there are pockets of programming happening around the territory, there needs to be more. We have the land and its part of who we are as a people. Land is where we need to get back to and help in supporting families. Rather than going south and giving large amounts to southern facilities, keep it in the territory.
"The Department Family Services (DFS) is like residential schools, has torn families apart. Families lose their connections and sense of belonging, we need to make sure this stops. Although, DFS has no other options when providing services to individuals in the territory, this needs to be addressed. And it is not just DFS, other departments tend to work in silos and there needs to be more effort to work together. Why? Because most times it is not just one department, they need to work cooperatively to ensure that children, youth and families don’t continue to get disconnected and get further trauma in their lives by being sent away."
Janet Pitsiulaaq Brewster, Iqaluit-Sinaa: "No person should have to relocate because of challenges they may face with disabilities. I agree that their quality of life, their dignity, self-determination, and the ability to remain home in their community is essential to their and their family’s wellbeing. I will work with the Nunavummi Disabilities Makinnasuaqtiit Society on this issue. It’s essential that persons with disabilities do not face barriers to employment have equal access and support. Absolutely, we need to ensure that programs and support are culturally-relevant. We need to look at the current programs in place and review what what’s working and not working to enable new and improved programs to meet the needs of persons with disabilities."
Jeff Ungalaq Maurice, Iqaluit-Sinaa: "I was raised by my grandmother who had mobility issues, she had to use a cane to get around. No services existed to help her in Igloolik at the time. This is an area we need to look into more closely. Our territory can do a lot better to serve Nunavummiut with disabilities at home. Sadly, when individuals are relocated, they gain access to services that address their disabilities but often lose access to staff that can speak their language and provide culturally relevant services. I would love to see staff trained here to provide the necessary services. In speaking to the Nunavut Disabilities Makinnasuaqtiit Socierty I was alerted to the need for appropriate legislation to address the needs of differently abled individuals in Nunavut. This is something I’d like to investigate further."
George Hickes, Iqaluit-Tasiluk: "When I became Minister of Health in 2015, one of the issues that came to my attention was the hundreds of millions of dollars we were spending to fly Inuit south for medical services. The federal health insurance program for Inuit (Non-Insured Health Benefits, or NIHB for short) that the GN administers on behalf of the Government of Canada, was critically underfunded and costing the GN close to $100 million dollars of Nunavut’s annual health care budget.
"You might be wondering why I’m bringing up this funding dispute and how it impacts families. Simply put, Nunavut was paying for services that Canada is obligated to provide, and it was taking away our ability to fund improvements within our own healthcare system in Nunavut. Without new investments in our healthcare system, families would have to continue to rely on southern healthcare – a self-perpetuating problem. I urged the federal government to come to the table with a fair deal for Nunavut.
"It took me five years of lobbying the federal government, and issuing an ultimatum that Nunavut would no longer pay for their program, but those efforts worked: we received $78 million dollars in NEW federal health care dollars last year, and another $78 million this year. That is up to $156 million that we freed up to support other initiatives.
"That new money will stay in Nunavut and help us improve the health care services here in the territory. It also means that we turned the territory’s largest projected deficit into a surplus without cutting programs and services, and posted the first ever surplus for the Health department this year.
"We’ve already expanded surgical services at Qikiqtani General Hospital, eliminated waitlists for colonoscopies, and introduced the first cancer care treatments available in-territory. We are now well-positioned to fund new and more healthcare services going forward.
"Providing more healthcare services in-territory will reduce our reliance on medical travel to the South, and keep Nunavummiut closer to their homes, families and to their culture and language. With continued investments, Nunavut’s healthcare system will be able to provide higher levels of care to Nunavummiut, and expand the quality and availability of services to Nunavummiut, meaning families will not have to leave the territory less often to access safe and appropriate healthcare.
"I’d be remiss if I didn’t take the opportunity to emphasize the need for Inuit healthcare providers in our system. Nunavut needs to improve its delivery of nursing and midwifery education in territory, and find out what’s working and what isn’t when it comes to training, recruiting and retaining Inuit healthcare staff.
"We need to develop training programs for our upcoming Addictions and Trauma Treatment Centre (Nunavut Recovery Centre) and new Elder care facilities, so that Inuit can become certified mental health counsellors and provide high-level medical and supportive care for Elders at the community level.
"I’d also like to explore how the Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) profession can be a ladder to advancing the skills and training of Inuit healthcare staff. These are all elements of our healthcare system that will create a more culturally-safe, accessible, and high-quality healthcare system for Nunavummiut."
James T. Arreak, Iqaluit-Tasiluk: "Providing adequate interpretation services helps families and those with disabilities access the programs and services that they need. Government is failing to serve its residence because it is unable to deliver programs and services in appropriate, sensitive to Inuit ways. Being able to accommodate the needs of Inuit still has deep gaps.
"Appropriate cultural context must also be developed by Government to help them create and structure programs and services. Some of the approaches mean well but the ignorance has to be addressed with the right understanding.
"As an example, change amongst the Inuit is an issue; while change is a constant everywhere, the kind of change Inuit have had to go through is often misunderstood. In order to address the issue around change, understanding must accompany the journey towards reconciliation. A way to revitalize relations with Inuit by taking the time to understand how hurtful some Government policies were. How colonialism tried to not only remove the Inuk in the person, but it also used disempowering tactics to have absolute control over the Inuit people."
Jonathan Chul-Hee Min Park, Iqaluit-Tasiluk: "We must work together with community-based organizations that support families to ensure that they can take care of their loved ones instead of having to send them away. We must encourage a spirit of cooperation and working together between the Department of Health and the Department of Child and Family Services to create holistic solutions that synergize government resources to best provide effective assistance to families that need support."
Bobby Anavilok, Kugluktuk: "Programs and education on self-esteem and traditional capabilities for commercial business."
Tagak Curley, Rankin Inlet South: "I favour Nunavut-mi based services I best more for services needed locally. Use our elders for counselling as they understand culturally what impact many have gone thru."
5.Many social issues that non-profits were established to address, such as food insecurity and homelessness, are rooted in lack of income. What can we do to boost incomes in the territory, particularly among those living on low incomes?
ᐊᒥᓱᑦ ᐃᓅᓯᕐᒨᖓᔪᑦ ᐃᓱᒫᓘᑕᐅᔪᑦ ᑮᓇᐅᔭᓕᐅᕋᓱᐊᖅᑎᐅᙱᑦᑐᑦ ᓴᖅᑭᖅᑕᐅᔾᔪᑎᒋᓯᒪᔭᖏᑦ ᖃᓄᐃᒋᐊᕈᑎᒋᓂᐊᕐᓗᒋ, ᓲᕐᓗ ᓂᕿᑦᓴᖃᑦᓯᐊᖏᓐᓂᖅ, ᐊᖏᕐᕋᖃᙱᓐᓂ, ᑐᙵᕕᖃᕐᒪᑕ ᑮᓇᐅᔭᓕᐅᙱᓗᐊᕐᓂᕐᒥᒃ. ᖃᓄᐃᒋᐊᕈᓐᓇᖅᑭᑕ ᖁᕝᕙᖅᑎᒋᐊᕐᓗᒋᑦ ᑮᓇᐅᔭᓕᐊᖑᔪᑦ ᓄᓇᕗᒻᒥ, ᐱᓗᐊᖅᑐᒥᒃ ᐊᑯᕐᖓᓐᓂ ᑕᒪᒃᑯᐊ ᑮᓇᐅᔭᓕᐅᙱᓗᐊᖅᑐᑦ?
Daniel Qavvik, Hudson Bay: "- Lowering housing rate
"- Lowering energy rate
"- Lowering food prices"
Joanasie Akumalik, Iqaluit-Manirajak: "I think Food insecurity and homelessness are probably here to stay. There will be communities who do not have better access thank others do, and will continue to face these problems. The Food security strategies created should be reviewed and implemented quickly as possible. Creating and exploring with other countries, if need be, should be reviewed on homelessness is one of may options. Income support policies should be changed to allow independency."
Noah Papatsie, Iqaluit-Niaqunnguu: "Supplying the Low barrier income and help it grow to support both working and none working environment where to need to learn sustainability and healthy living. Culture differences plays big roll but the Local people need to have more goal of direction and work force to succeed daily task as our Culture plays a big roll and respect each other."
P.J. Akeeagok, Iqaluit-Niaqunnguu: "As QIA President I worked hard to create good jobs for Inuit in various sectors including environmental stewardship. The Nauttiqsuqtiit, Inuit steward program now running in five communities in the Qikiqtani region is a model for how to create jobs that tap into people’s skills, safeguard our environment, help feed our communities and instill cultural pride in our people.
"I think we need to look at these models to create more jobs here in Iqaluit. Inuit are very capable and we need jobs that harness their skills."
Christa Kunuk, Iqaluit-Sinaa: "There several options, first the universal basic income (UBI) is a possible way to boost incomes in the territory. Once an individual or family feels less stress about rent and food, more than likely their survival mode would dissipate. Which could mean the ability and the willingness to access programming to help support themselves and their families.
"There needs to be better programming and funding to strengthen hunters and their equipment, it allows them to make a living and to provide for their families.
We need to be more innovative in how we encourage and strengthen our low income or one income families. For example, we have always been at around 55% for Inuit employment in GN. We need to start looking at the lower level positions and support them with housing, with education and mentorship. We won’t see that 55% rise until we support the lower bureaucratic pyramid.
"Another issue is with housing. For example, when someone is being evicted from a public housing unit, they will more than likely become homeless. We need to be creative and innovative with low income residents who may have multiple issues, such as emotional/ mental health care and basic living issues. The disconnect between those who have and those who have not, has increased. If we continue down the path of not supporting our most vulnerable, we will continue to support an oppressive system which in time will see more and more peoples needing their basic human rights met."
Janet Pitsiulaaq Brewster, Iqaluit-Sinaa: "Training and education are critical in bringing the economic and social status to a level that ensures Nunavummiut have access to stable income, affordable housing, nutritious foods, and there are ways we can achieve improvements to wellness through employment programs and learning programs. We must move the needle on several fronts because moving individuals and families out of poverty takes a holistic and comprehensive approach rooted in family services, health, housing, and education.
"Art created by Nunavummiut artists contributes over $50M to Canada’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) annually. Nunavummiut who create art for sale and for consumption currently make up 33% of the Nunavut work force over the age of 15. This means Nunavut has the highest per capita concentration of artists in Canada somewhere around 40 times the national average. Given that data it’s quite clear that the Nunavut arts sector is unique (in Canada and the world) and an important pillar of Nunavut’s economy. Through my work in health I also know that the contribution of artists to their communities and the territory is not only through direct economic impact but has clear social and economic benefits. These are also a form of wealth that have a positive effect on social determinates of health, creating prosperity for our communities and territory. As MLA I will work at the territorial level with the Government of Canada to ensure the financial well-being of Nunavut artists by implementing a permanent Basic Income Guarantee for Nunavummiut artists."
Jeff Ungalaq Maurice, Iqaluit-Sinaa: "In my platform I call for Improving Nunavut’s income support system, I believe preventing claw backs, so small earnings such as bingo winnings, income from making a parka or selling a carving shouldn’t impact a recipient’s cheque. We need to improve the system to help families make ends meet.
"I also call for tapping into the blue economy to develop inshore fisheries and invest in training, development and infrastructure to support marine related industries. As the former Chair of the Nunavut Fisheries and Marine Training Consortium in Iqaluit I have seen what can happen when individuals receive training for good paying jobs such as fisheries. The Nunavut Fisheries and Marine Training Consortium was established in 2005, we trained approximately 400 students each year for jobs in the fisheries and marine field until the COVID pandemic impacted our ability to offer more cources.
"With the new port in Iqaluit, we have an opportunity to create a lot more jobs in the marine sector. These jobs can make a huge difference in lifting people out of poverty."
George Hickes, Iqaluit-Tasiluk: "Again, I’ll reiterate the importance of safe, affordable and accessible housing. Safe and appropriate housing improves all social determinates of health – which includes a person’s economic stability. It’s hard to participate in the workforce when you don’t have a safe place to call home.
"For those who do have housing, there may be other barriers for entering the workforce, such as child care or wages that barely earn more than what can be accessed through employment insurance or social assistance. I’m committed to pursuing the federal government’s pledge to offer $10/day childcare, and to increase wages for childcare workers and available childcare spaces in Iqaluit.
"The pandemic has offered important lessons in what kind of supports are needed to maintain an adequate income. As the federal government explores a universal basic income for Canadians, we can use the lessons learned from pandemic support programs to adjust our own territorial supports for people with low incomes, people accessing social assistance, or those who are underemployed.
"For instance, Nunavut was able to access federal COVID funding to create wage top-up programs like the Nunavut Essential Wage Workers Programs, that increased wages up to $25/hour for sectors providing essential services. Evaluating the outcomes of this program will give us valuable information that can help adjust the territorial minimum wage, or income assistance levels, so that people are earning and receiving an appropriate level of income each month."
James T. Arreak, Iqaluit-Tasiluk: "There are several things that can be done. First, help those in low incomes feel better about themselves. Confirm how valuable they are, and they are stronger than they think. And they can do better in life. People need to learn to believe in themselves before they can advance towards the higher income bracket.
"Secondly, the Government must invest into developing the employable skills. There are supposedly enough jobs to employ every person. However, that is not the case. Government creates social service supports intended to meet needs of those that needs the assistance, however, these same efforts also create poverty traps. Keeping individuals in poverty conditions. Keeping people dependent on Government hand-outs."
Jonathan Chul-Hee Min Park, Iqaluit-Tasiluk: "We must implement a Universal Basic Income in Nunavut to ensure that low income families do not struggle with food insecurity and homelessness."
Bobby Anavilok, Kugluktuk: "Get work shops and programs that point to self-employment capabilities."
Tagak Curley, Rankin Inlet South: "There are plans for most regions to provide elders facilities but the pandemic has delayed all of them.
"Smaller continuing care facity like one in Igloolik and Gjoa Hi Sven are best models that I would support for disable and those with mild mental conditions.
"But we must all strive to do more. Our resources are limited."
6. Nunavut faces the highest rates of food insecurity in the country, and Nunavummiut diets are increasingly dominated by foods from the south. What can we do to help people meet this basic need, and how can we strengthen our local food system?
ᓄᓇᕗᒻᒥ ᖁᑦᓯᓂᖅᐹᒥᒃ ᑲᓇᑕᒥ ᓂᕿᑦᓴᖃᑦᓯᐊᖏᓐᓂᖅᐸᐅᕗᑦ, ᓄᓇᕗᒻᒥᓗ ᓂᕆᔭᑦᓴᐃᑦ ᐱᓯᒪᒐᔪᑦᑐᓂᒃ ᓂᖀᑦ ᖃᓪᓗᓈᑦ ᓄᓇᖓᓐᓃᙶᖅᑐᑦ. ᖃᓄᖅ ᐃᑲᔪᕈᓐᓇᖅᑭᑕ ᐃᓄᓐᓂᒃ ᑎᑭᐅᑎᑎᒋᐊᕐᓗᒋᑦ ᑭᙴᒪᒋᔭᖏᓐᓄᖅ ᖃᓄᕐᓗ ᓴᙱᓕᖅᐹᓪᓕᖅᑎᒍᓐᓇᕐᒪᖔᑦᑎᒍ ᓄᓇᓕᓐᓂ ᓂᕿᓅᖓᔪᑦ?
Daniel Qavvik, Hudson Bay: "Their needs be a fundamental agreement with the airline shipping contract, comparing to the food prices from the south to the north when groceries like fruits, vegetables, frozen meat and other edible items make it to Nunavut they are sold at a higher prize then what they were sold in down south in Canada. We can strengthen our local food system by being fair and have basic human rights by receiving affordable food prices from our only stores we have in our communities. Our local food system with the assistance from the federal and the territorial governments, can improve if our governments can offset the cost of shipping rate to airlines with regards to all food products."
Joanasie Akumalik, Iqaluit-Manirajak: "Changing the cost of high prices of food is one way the business community should help to reduce the costs, but yet allow the business community to enjoy benefits; lowering taxes, ability to access job creation programs, etc. Implement food strategy plans and actions as soon as possible."
Noah Papatsie, Iqaluit-Niaqunnguu: "Supporting Local Hunters and Economic Sector I Learning/Business/Workers ect.supporting Local education and our environment plats big roll and showing the public and non for profit can do to assist in a remote place as our Culture and Vast Knowledge and Land has significate place I n all our fields."
P.J. Akeeagok, Iqaluit-Niaqunnguu: "Food sovereignty is an issue that I am extremely passionate about. As QIA President I worked hard to bring in programs and initiatives that provided kids in schools with food programs, Elders grocery vouchers, and Inuit jobs as harvesters.
"We can do a lot more to tap into the Blue economy, we can support local fisheries, empower harvesters and create a market for country food. I am eager to investigate these options as an MLA."
Christa Kunuk, Iqaluit-Sinaa: "I think there’s a lot of strength in Nunavut to combat food insecurity, majority of Nunavummiut are actively accessing the land and water. There’s opportunity to discuss food insecurity, provided through funding that would support hunters in their way of life. We can work closely with HTOs to provide financial support to hunters. So hunters can share their catch with the local HTOs, and community.
"Nutrition North and the multi-million dollar companies that benefit need to do better, the dominate and cheapest foods are processed and/or unhealthy products. The Government of Nunavut and Inuit orgs need to continue to work together to pressure the stakeholders to do better."
Janet Pitsiulaaq Brewster, Iqaluit-Sinaa: "Country food programs are essential to our people. This is a core part of our Inuit way of life. We need to balance our wildlife conservation efforts with access to Inuksiutit. Country food freezer programs, and access to support for Nunavummiut to hunt and fish in a sustainable way are critical. It is expensive for families to have access to the necessary equipment, which is why I believe that our programs and services should include helping more people access funding for on the land activities. I also think access to nutritious foods at reasonable cost is something that needs an overhaul with Nutrition North programs. Every person should be afforded the right to food and there is no excuse for any government to overlook this critical right."
Jeff Ungalaq Maurice, Iqaluit-Sinaa: "I think food sovereignty is essential to cultural renewal, we need to do more to facilitate Nunavummiut’s access to country food. Bolstering supports for local harvesting including fisheries is one solution, but we can also provide training and jobs to harvesters and create spaces where country food can be safely bought and sold."
George Hickes, Iqaluit-Tasiluk: "Country foods that are sustainably harvested, affordable and accessible is absolutely foundational to food security in Nunavut. Country food is not a matter of taste or preference – it is a healthy, nutritious and sustainable food source, rooted in Inuit knowledge, culture and traditions, and needs to be better integrated into our food systems.
"NTI has made significant investments in harvester support programs during the pandemic, and has also integrated harvesting activities as an important component of economic development and environmental stewardship. The GN can and should align its harvesting programs with NTI, and coordinate support for developing a robust country food supply chain and more processing facilities in Nunavut."
James T. Arreak, Iqaluit-Tasiluk: "Support hunters and the development of hunting skills in Nunavut. Food insecurity is a common and growing issue in Nunavut. Government can do several things to ensure access to food can be facilitated and enhanced.
"First, invest in Nunavut supply routes to ensure these supply chain activities can be done more efficiently.
"Second, ensure inter-settlement trade of country food is supported and seamless. Inuit are used to sharing food. This can be a strong way of enhancing the sharing of food that may not be available.
"Third, keep supporting soup-kitchens, breakfast in schools, food banks.
"Fourth, support Inuit hunters who have the skills to hunt but often need support to purchase gas, food, etc. Another culturally relevant skill that would help with the preservation of country food is the training consumers how to handle country food so that you can preserve and allow the food to last longer. This would help with reducing food-waste.
"Fifth, locally driven community freezers should be introduced because it promotes sharing country food.
"Sixth, consider diversifying food suppliers IE introduction of ‘Meal Kits’ to Nunavut. It is a growing industry that is interested in supporting regions who struggle with food develop food security initiatives."
Jonathan Chul-Hee Min Park, Iqaluit-Tasiluk: "We must work together with Hunters and Trappers Organizations in local communities to create locally relevant solutions to country food access. Imagine if a hunter or trapper in a community could go to their local HTO for access to a vehicle to get out on the land, fuel, and ammunition covered through a combination of membership dues, external funding, and government funding. They would become a central hub for the continuation of Inuit land-based cultural activities. Young people could see hunting and trapping as a legitimate profession and could take pride in their work."
Tagak Curley, Rankin Inlet South: "Food security is ongoing concerned by most Nunavutmuit.
"Our hunters must be recognized by government that they do more than GN providing food security assistance voluntary. Without be their help me any would be suffer. It's time they are given more financial support so that they can help more those in need of country food daily. It's costly to equip hunters but they do so voluntary give to our needy Every day of the year."
7. Finally, what could you do as an individual MLA to bring about action on these issues?
ᑭᖑᓪᓕᖅᐹᒥ, ᓱᒐᔭᖅᑭᑦ ᐃᕝᕕᑦ ᒪᓕᒐᓕᐅᖅᑎᐅᓗᑎᑦ ᐊᐅᓚᔾᔭᒋᐊᕈᑎᒋᓗᒋᑦ ᑖᒃᑯᐊ ᐃᓱᒫᓘᑕᐅᔪᑦ?
Daniel Qavvik, Hudson Bay: "Identify the most important issues, address the issues to the legislative assembly and start building infrastructures that will make our people stay in their community. It is costing millions to have services available to our inuit members by sending and relocating inuit for a specific reasons to down south. (Reasons like medical travel, dental care, health care, rehabilitation centers, etc, etc, etc.) By having these important infrastructures built in Nunavut communities Nunavut can create jobs that will put more inuit into the employment force to our Government of Nunavut, in the long run saving millions of dollars."
Joanasie Akumalik, Iqaluit-Manirajak: "I will meet with the stakeholders, different levels of governments, NGOs, businesses, constituents, and lobby, within the term of office. Create a plan to bring for action with the stakeholders."
Noah Papatsie, Iqaluit-Niaqunnguu: "Creating Basic Income for the territory to support both working and none working sector to address the crisis we are in and the years to come for better access in well being and housing /disability access/work force, language written and verbal being respected as mental health plays a big roll more we understand each other better and have access for work/food/water/ and understanding our surroundings for better education and economic sector for years to come. everyone plays a roll/child/dren/youth/adults/elders/grand/parents remote Place is Unique and Respecting it is Our Priority and Culture surrounding."
P.J. Akeeagok, Iqaluit-Niaqunnguu: "As an individual MLA I can raise the issues, advocating for change, lobby other MLA’s. My job can be to amplify the voices for change."
Christa Kunuk, Iqaluit-Sinaa: "continue to meet regularly with non-profits
"Continue to meet with constituents and listen to their concerns
"Ask the critical questions and bring back accountability to public service."
Janet Pitsiulaaq Brewster, Iqaluit-Sinaa: "As an MLA, I will continue to advocate and demand action in areas that are imperative to our communities – affordable housing, social assistance, employment, food security, training and education, infrastructure, arts, mental wellness and safe spaces for those facing violence. All these issues are important. We need public policy that mitigates the effects of poverty. This means fighting for minimum wage increases, basic incomes, affordable daycare and housing, nutrition, and country food assistance programs. We need to promote health equity, community-based partnerships, and professional awareness and advocacy that is culturally relevant. I envision cross-sectoral action between NTI, ITK, Canada, GN and our communities. We need change driven through social and economic policy. The frameworks must be collective and support wellbeing and not exclusively focus on economic growth. These two aspects to wellbeing are linked and must be intertwined."
Jeff Ungalaq Maurice, Iqaluit-Sinaa: "My main job as an MLA will be to amplify the voices of people in Iqaluit-Sinaa. In the legislature I have the ability to raise questions, make statements, advocates among my colleagues and put forth tangible solutions through legislation."
George Hickes, Iqaluit-Tasiluk: "All of the topics and issues raised in your survey are interconnected, complex and challenging.
"Having been the MLA for Iqaluit-Tasiluk since 2013, I’ve learned a lot about these issues by helping my constituents overcome barriers they face.
"As a Cabinet Minister for 6 of those years, I was immersed in the innerworkings of how government funds, plans, develops and delivers programs and services to all Nunavummiut.
"I’ve been the Minister responsible for Nunavut Housing Corporation, Qulliq Energy Corporation and the WSCC; the Minister of Health responsible for elders and suicide prevention, the Minister of Justice and the Minister of Finance.
"It would be fair to say that some days it felt like I was drinking from a fire hose. But I believe I have the experience and leadership to be able to deliver results and make progress on tackling these big challenges.
"I feel energized and more committed than ever before to take on the priorities of the next government. I hope there is a renewed commitment to in-territory elder care and new approaches to creating affordable housing. I’d like to see Nunavut reach its economic potential by further developing our cultural industries, and better employ the talents, knowledge and experience of Inuit in our territorial healthcare system, our education system and public government.
"There is a lot of hard work to do, and I’m ready to hit the ground running."
James T. Arreak, Iqaluit-Tasiluk: "As laid out in the answers I provided to the questions above, I would want to work with this association to develop how to move forward."
Jonathan Chul-Hee Min Park, Iqaluit-Tasiluk: "I will make sure to hold Cabinet accountable to these issues. I would establish working relationships with all NPOs in Iqaluit (and beyond if I become a member of Cabinet) to remain aware of the solutions the community needs and wants. I would work tirelessly to ensure that the government is kept aware of the concerns of the community and held accountable so that they contribute to positive changes in the fight against food insecurity, homelessness, and other social problems that prevent Nunavummiut from thriving in our community."
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