$4.7 million for two processing plants in Nunavut
The federal government announced an investment of more than $4.7 million to fund two community traditional food processing facilities in Gjoa Haven and Taloyoak, located in Nunavut’s Kitikmeot region.
This financial support aims to reduce dependence on imports and lower food costs in the North.
“Food security is a critical pillar of Arctic security and one of the most pressing issues in Nunavut,” said Lori Idlout, Member of Parliament for Nunavut. “I am proud to see the Government of Canada supporting Inuit in Gjoa Haven and Taloyoak by investing in innovative, locally led projects that help these communities access more affordable, nutritious, and culturally appropriate food.”
The budget is divided among three federal departments and agencies: the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency (CanNor) is injecting nearly $3.4 million, Fisheries and Oceans Canada is providing $831,550, and Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada, along with Indigenous Services Canada, is contributing just over $566,000.
According to a press release from CanNor, the funding will help build the Gjoa Haven local food processing facility, a long-awaited project by the local Hunters and Trappers Association.
In Taloyoak, the funds will support the Niqihaqut cutting and packaging facility.
“Arctic char and country food have nourished Northern communities for generations,” explained Fisheries Minister Joanne Thompson. “These facilities enable Inuit in Gjoa Haven and Taloyoak to safely process and distribute these foods so that more families can access them.”
Managed by the Taloyoak Umaruliririgut Association, the latter facility will produce ready-to-eat portions sourced from sustainable hunting and fishing in Aviqtuuq.
These initiatives are part of Ottawa’s National Food Security Strategy.
This government plan, which received an additional $6.3 million last March for the Northern Isolated Communities Initiatives Fund, aims to modernize the Canadian supply chain through targeted investments in local infrastructure.
Related stories from around the North:
Canada: Upgraded Montreal warehouse could lower food costs in Nunavik, CBC News
Finland: One in 10 Finnish families with young children dealing with food insecurity: survey, Yle News
United States: New farm bill program aims to fight food insecurity in Alaska, Alaska Public Media
