Nunavut Premier John Main today released the following statement:
“This week, I met with my territorial colleagues at the Northern Premier’s Forum in Hay River, Northwest Territories, to discuss our mutual interests, opportunities and concerns. The three territories are similar in many ways, and our bond is strong, and our shared goal is to make our territories a better place for all residents.
For Nunavut, our Ikajuqtigiikta mandate aims to ensure that happens.
At a time when we’re seeing increased attention and investments in Nunavut from the federal government, it’s critical that our partners understand that nation-building for Nunavummiut means creating equity in opportunities, access and essentials. The Government of Nunavut welcomes initiatives around major projects, dual-use and multi-purpose defence infrastructure. However, those investments must work in tandem with additional investments that bring our communities in line with a national standard of living.
“What I’ve always known is that when Nunavummiut are healthy and engaged, our communities thrive. This is the key to Arctic security and sovereignty – all our communities must be engaged and benefit from investments in the Arctic.
I’m encouraged by the support from my territorial counterparts, and we’ve had some great discussions and learned from one another. I’d like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Premier R.J. Simpson for hosting and to the Kátł’odeeche First Nation for welcoming us to their land. I look forward to hosting next year’s Northern Premiers’ Forum in Nunavut.”