Income assistance appointments now being rebooked Nunavut-wide

Income assistance offices across Nunavut are now rebooking appointments for January, following the recent ransomware attack that caused widespread problems with the territorial government’s computer systems.

“Please note that appointments may take longer than usual as electronic data need to be entered for November and December 2019, before January eligibility assessments are processed. Please arrive on time for your appointment,” states a news release issued by the Department of Family Services on Jan. 16.

“Staff have been working overtime to ensure that the additional data entry is completed as quickly as possible. The Department of Family Services appreciates the understanding and patience of our clientele during this time.”

Following the Nov. 2 ransomware attack, income-support recipients were initially obliged to receive food coupons instead of money, and some Nunavut residents reported delays in receiving income support.

Payments to income-support recipients in Iqaluit had resumed by Nov. 15, but it was a slower process to restore income-support payments in the communities.

Those wishing to rebook their appointments can reach the income assistance regional offices at 1-800-567-1514 for Baffin, 1-800-953-8516 for the Kivalliq and 1-800-661-0845 for the Kitikmeot.