The Government of Nunavut has declared a state of emergency in Iqaluit due to the city’s tainted drinking water.
Community and Government Services Minister Jeannie Ehaloak made the announcement on Thursday afternoon.
“I want to ensure the people of Nunavut, especially those in Iqaluit, that we are taking this water issue very seriously,” said Ehaloak.
She added that she has been in constant contact with the City of Iqaluit, the Department of Health and the federal government.
“We are working together to ensure Iqalungmmiut have ongoing access to safe drinking water,” she said.
The state of emergency will expedite the process of offering support and resources to the territorial capital and give additional authority to the Government of Nunavut under the Emergency Management Act.
Residents of Iqaluit are urged to follow any related orders and all over public health direction and advice from the chief public health officer.
The state of emergency will be in affect from Oct. 14 to Oct. 27.