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GN to establish mine training centre in Rankin, increase appointments of long-term casuals

Michele LeTourneau

Cabinet ministers met in Arviat last week for a mid-term retreat and resurfaced with a wish list of what they would like the government to accomplish in the remaining two years of its mandate, including establishing a mine training centre in Rankin Inlet.

Read: Nunavut mine training under scrutiny

Premier Joe Savikataaq announced the outcome of a cabinet retreat held in Arviat last week, which includes establishing a mine training centre in Rankin Inlet.
photo courtesy Nunavut Legislative Assembly

"We are a united executive council, with clear goals and strong ideas for Nunavut. We are now close to halfway through our mandate, and we remain committed to accountability and ensuring the Government of Nunavut achieves the goals of our mandate," stated Premier Joe Savikataaq in a Sept. 9 news release.

"After a productive two days, we have specific direction to move forward and accomplish our work to benefit all Nunavummiut."

Along with the Rankin Inlet centre, cabinet established the following goals:

  • Foster Inuit employment across the public service by substantially increasing the number of direct appointments of long-term casuals.
  • Ensure the Financial Assistance for Nunavut Students program returns to the Department of Education, to support life-long learning.
  • Renew partnerships with the regional, territorial and national Inuit organizations to strengthen planning and amplify territorial voices.
  • Move the fisheries and sealing division from the Department of Environment to the Department of Economic Development and Transportation, with enhanced support for the viability of the sector’s potential.
  • Engage more proactively and frequently with the new federal government to provide Nunavummiut with the same standards and opportunities as Canadians in other jurisdictions.

Savikataaq stated his government is on track with its Turaaqtavut mandate.

"Our main priority has always been the success and well-being of our people. We look to enhance the services and programs we provide, and give Nunavummiut every opportunity to thrive," he stated.

Meanwhile, on Sept. 6, Savikataaq announced changes in senior management.

Effective September 9, 2019:

  • Kathy Okpik, Deputy Minister of Executive and Intergovernmental Affairs returns as Deputy Minister of Education.
  • William MacKay, Deputy Minister of Justice becomes Deputy Minister of Executive and Intergovernmental Affairs.
  • Simon Awa becomes Acting Deputy Minister of Justice.
  • Gideonie Joamie becomes Acting Deputy Minister of Culture and Heritage.

Effective October 21, 2019:

Theresa Hughes becomes Deputy Minister of Culture and Heritage.