GN-NTI enjoy strong “partnership,” Aariak says

Premier Eva Aariak and Nunavut Tunngavik Inc.’s vice-president Jack Anawak speak at a press conference to close the territory’s first poverty summit in 2012. (PHOTO BY SARAH ROGERS)

Nunavut Premier Eva Aariak says the territorial government’s partnership with Nunavut Tunngavik Inc. has never been stronger.

Aariak told the members of Nunavut’s legislative assembly Sept. 5 that Nunavut is on track to becoming a healthier, more sustainable place — in part thanks to Aajiqatigiinniq, an agreement both the GN and NTI signed in 2011 to set common goals for the territory.

In her statement, Aariak noted the GN’s work towards a policy on poverty reduction (the Collaboration for Poverty Reduction Act), passing Bill 59 after almost three years of public engagement.

“The act was the result of a successful effort to engage Nunavut communities and it was a process that was co-sponsored by Nunavut Tunngavik and the government,” Aariak said.

NTI continues to work with the GN on initiatives like its roundtable for poverty reduction, and the Nunavut food security coalition, she said.

Aariak also pointed to a long-term housing and homelessness strategy it is developing with NTI, which oversees the territory’s land claims agreement.

“The spirit of the land claim is one of partnership,” Aariak told the assembly.

“It is meant to redefine the relationship between Inuit and government and this is why the partnership between the government of Nunavut and Nunavut Tunngavik is so important.”

“Nunavut Tunngavik has also been a strong supporter of devolution and we look forward to working closely with them as we take this next step in building Nunavut,” she added.