CanNor investments to support Nunavut job creation and communities

Today, the Honourable Daniel Vandal, Minister of Northern Affairs, Minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Canada and Minister responsible for the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency, announced a combined investment of over $2.2 million, delivered through CanNor, to support seven projects that help communities across Nunavut in their recovery from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

This investment through the Canada Community Revitalization Fund (CCRF) and the Jobs and Growth Fund (JGF) will support regional job creation and help communities across Nunavut with building and improving community infrastructure. The funds support the building of new community infrastructure and revitalizing already existing structures and assets, bringing people back to community public spaces as COVID-related health measures are lifted, creating jobs and stimulating local economies across Nunavut.

Kugaaruk Service Garage                                                                                       $1,000,000

CanNor is investing $1,000,000 in a two-year project with a further investment of $2,308,173 by the Hamlet of Kugaaruk. The total cost of the project is $3,308,173. This project will replace an existing forty-year old garage with a new six bay service garage for the community. It will include new equipment so the Hamlet can continue to provide needed services for motor vehicles, small engine repair, and community service trucks. The Hamlet is the only provider of mechanical services and the project ensures the community is well-equipped to provide mechanical services to its residents. It will result in two full-time positions, two-part time positions, and six positions during the construction phase of the project.

Kugaaruk Ball Diamond and Play Field                                                                 $87,500

CanNor is investing $87,500 towards a one-year project to construct a ball diamond. This will allow the Hamlet to convert the land they own into a ball diamond and play field. It will include purchasing and installing fence material, ball diamond dugouts, and bleachers. Additionally, staff will be hired to complete installation of materials. This project will create two short-term jobs during the project and a safe ball diamond and play area for the community to use.

Taloyoak Youth/Elders Community Centre                                                           $204,383

CanNor is investing $204,383 towards a two-year project, with a further investment of $58,117 from the Government of Nunavut, to support the renovation of an unused Hamlet building into a Youth/Elders Community Centre in Taloyoak. The total cost of the project is $262,500. The project includes the demolition of existing components, carpentry work, installation of doors and windows, flooring, painting, kitchen and washroom fixtures and millwork, and the installation of an exterior wheelchair access ramp. The Hamlet will be able to improve accessibility and usage of a community space. It will also create one full-time position to coordinate cultural programming at the Centre. This project will provide a safe gathering space for youth and elders, support community morale and mental health, and promote cultural exchanges between youth and elders.

Taloyoak Soup Kitchen                                                                                               $128,500

CanNor is investing $128,500 towards a two-year project to renovate an old Hamlet office building and the installation of an industrial kitchen to establish a daily community soup kitchen serving 200 hot meals per day. Funding will support plumbing, electrical work, flooring, and interior carpentry to convert the building. In addition to the soup kitchen, the renovated building will host the existing school breakfast program. To run both programs, the Hamlet will expand two part-time jobs to full-time jobs and create two new full-time jobs. This project will help reduce food insecurity in the community, support low income households, and support community morale and mental health.

Iqaluit Recreation Infrastructure Upgrades                                                              $375,000

CanNor is investing $375,000 towards a two-year project, with a further $185,000 from the Government of Nunavut, and $15,000 from Northmart. The total investment is $575,000. The project will improve eight public spaces and create one new one in the City of Iqaluit. It includes improvements to the Elders’ Qammaq, funding for the design of an upgraded chlorinator for the Iqaluit Aquatic Centre, repairing and upgrading three playgrounds, improving access to three trails to ensure durability and accessibility for local residents, and developing the new Hospital Hill trail. This will give increased access to recreational opportunities, promoting physical activity, and improve the mental health and quality of life for residents.

Naujaat Community Trail                                                                                        $225,000

CanNor is investing $225,000 towards a two-year project with a further investment of $50,000 from the Hamlet of Naujaat and $125,000 from the Government of Nunavut. The total cost of the project is $400,000. The project will build a community access trail that will run 15 km northeast of Naujaat. It will also provide access to natural aggregate sources for the hamlet that can be used for construction and increase the potential of carving stones and ecotourism opportunities to community members. The trail will also improve safety for traditional harvesters. This project will result in small scale infrastructure that contributes to economic development and outdoor access in the community.

Whale Cove Hall, Arena, Field Renovations                                                          $212,416

CanNor is investing $212,416 towards a two-year project with a further investment of $13,089 from the Hamlet of Whale Cove, and $58,353 from the Government of Nunavut. The total cost of the project is $283,858. This project will revitalize the community hall, arena and baseball field, which are currently closed. CanNor funds will be used to pay for the cost of the fire prevention system installation in the community hall as well as material and supplies for the repairs for the arena and baseball field. This project will result in two full-time positions being maintained and three public facilities improved.