Brendan Hanley
Yukon, Yukon · Liberal · Canada
“They understand that protecting the porcupine caribou herd means protecting the heart of who they are as Gwich'in and safeguarding the continued health, culture and sovereignty of their community. At Vadzaih Choo Drin , I heard directly from young people who spoke passionately about what the caribou mean to their future.”
“Mr. Speaker, it is my great honour to present a petition on behalf of the Gwich'in, Na-cho Nyäk Dun, Tr'ondëk Hwëch'in and Inuvialuit peoples. The petition was signed while I was present in the beautiful community of Old Crow, Yukon, during our annual Vadzaih Choo Drin , Big Caribou Days, celebration in May.”
“The petitioning citizens and residents of Canada call upon the Government of Canada to take all steps necessary to uphold the rights of the Gwich'in, Na-cho Nyäk Dun, Tr'ondëk Hwëch'in and Inuvialuit, and to protect the porcupine caribou herd and its sacred calving grounds from U.S.”
“Mr. Speaker, I know that the member has been a champion not just for this bill but also for many other bills within our package of bills addressing crime, bail reform and criminal justice. Can the member speak to the importance of this with respect to his home riding?”
“Mr. Speaker, the Yukon has recently lost a treasure in the beloved and historic Westminster Hotel. I caught a last glimpse of this famous establishment, affectionately known as “The Pit”, while attending Dawson City's Gold Show just a couple of weeks ago.”
“My mind floods with memories soaked in the cheeky artwork of Halin de Repentigny, and I still hear the echoes of music of all brands, festive seasonal celebrations and the quiet murmur of chatting locals. An era has ended. I bid farewell to The Pit and give a fond nostalgic embrace to all in Dawson City.”
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“For example, we have made the national school food program permanent, providing school meals for up to 400,000 children each year and saving participating families with two children in school an estimated $800 annually on groceries. We have also cut taxes for 22 million middle-class Canadians by lowering the first marginal personal income tax rate from 15% to 14% as of July 1, 2025. With this tax cut, we are providing relief of up to $420 a year per person or up to $840 a year for two-income families. The government also cancelled the consumer carbon price, effective April 1, 2025, directly helping most Canadians save money at the pump. [ Translation ] Our government recognizes that many Canadians who are under pressure because of the cost of living need immediate support.”
“That is why we are developing a national food security strategy. This new strategy will strengthen domestic food production and improve access to affordable, nutritious food. There will also be measures to implement unit price labelling and support the work of the Competition Bureau in monitoring and enforcing competition in the market, including food supply chains. (1720) [ English ] Our government is focused on building a stronger economy to create more career opportunities and higher wages. In parallel, we are introducing measures, like the one I just discussed, to bring down costs and make life more affordable in communities across the country. By doing so, we will empower more Canadians with greater certainty, security and prosperity. We have already moved forward with many measures to make life more affordable.”
“Thanks to this measure, producers will be able to fully write off greenhouses acquired on or after November 4, 2025, and that become available for use before 2030. This measure supports increased domestic supply and investment in food production over the medium term. Our government is also aware that food banks across the country are under pressure, as many Canadians need support. That is why we are investing $20 million in the local food infrastructure fund. This measure supports food banks and other national, regional, and local organizations to deliver more nutritious food to families in need. However, I want to point out that our government understands that long-term solutions are needed to address food insecurity. Now more than ever, we need to tackle the root causes of food insecurity.”
“The benefit will be paid quarterly, at the start of the quarter, to permit timely access to the funds to help families with day-to-day expenses. This new benefit is an important step forward to support Canadians, but we are also moving forward with other important measures. Again, Yukoners have taken note of this. [ Translation ] For example, the government is setting aside $500 million from the strategic response fund to help businesses address the costs of supply chain disruptions without passing those costs on to Canadians at the checkout line. For the same reason, the government is creating a $150-million food security fund under the regional tariff response initiative for small and medium enterprises and the organizations that support them. Our government is also introducing immediate expensing for greenhouse buildings.”
“For a single person, that person will receive up to $950 this year and about $700 a year for the next four years. I am pleased to say that the new Canada groceries and essentials benefit will provide additional significant support for more than 12 million Canadians. It is a measure to truly support Canadians who need it the most. That is why Food Banks Canada recommended we support Canadians in this way. Many Canadians will be able to afford nutritious food to feed their families thanks to this new benefit. I will therefore encourage my colleagues to support Bill C-19 , so we can roll it out as soon as possible. After the one-time payment is made this spring, eligible families and individuals will receive the enriched regular payments under the Canada groceries and essentials benefit as of July 2026.”
“I know that this measure will greatly help many people in my riding, especially seniors and families. As the Prime Minister announced last week, the Canada groceries and essentials benefit will replace what was formerly known as the goods and services tax credit, and it will be more generous. The amounts paid will increase by 25% for five years, beginning in July 2026, and we will index this benefit to inflation, so payments go up every year to match future increases in the consumer price index. Notably for the short term, we are also providing a one-time payment equivalent to a 50% increase this year. What does that mean exactly for Canadians? It means a family of four will receive up to $1,890 this year and about $1,400 a year for the next four years.”
“However, while we wait to see the long-term benefits of these investments in Canada, our government needs to give Canadians a helping hand to make ends meet. That is the purpose of these new measures, including the Canada groceries and essentials benefit, which will help Canadians cope with rising costs. We are stronger when we take care of each other and ensure that everyone has the opportunity to succeed. [ English ] That is why we are moving forward with actions to make life more affordable for Canadians. With the new Canada groceries and essentials benefit, our government is going to put more money back into Canadians' pockets. This past weekend, I was talking with constituents. Many have taken notice of this new benefit and how it will help Canadians who are bearing the highest burden of the affordability crisis that we are in.”
“I am lucky in that I can buy what I need, but I know that it is getting harder and harder for many Canadians to buy all the groceries they need for their families. Whether we are talking about fruits, vegetables, meat, eggs or fish, everything is a bit more expensive now. In recent years, many Canadians have been feeling the pinch of rising costs, and our government is committed to continuing to find ways to help those who need it most. We are focused on making Canada stronger. We continue to support Canadians through the programs they rely on, such as affordable child care, the Canada child benefit and the Canadian dental care plan. In addition, we are building housing and infrastructure at a pace never seen before.”
“Mr. Speaker, I will be sharing my time with the member for Pickering—Brooklin . I am thankful for this opportunity. (1715) [ Translation ] Affordability in Canada is a challenge that Canadians face on a daily basis. In the north, daily costs like food, fuel, housing and transportation are all higher, so any effort to improve the lives of Canadians is particularly important for northern residents. That is why I am pleased to participate in this debate today following the tabling of Bill C-19 , the Canada groceries and essentials benefit act. When I am home and I go run errands, it is a great opportunity to chat with voters and support local businesses, but also to see first-hand the constant rise in food prices.”
“I ask members to join me in congratulating Leonard Boniface and the board of volunteers with Yukon's TELIYA International Society for putting together yet another amazing event. Asante sana . I will see members on the dance floor.”
“Mr. Speaker, dance, dansez , dance is the spirit of the upcoming 13th annual Yukon African Music Festival. [ Translation ] Who would have believed, in the cold, dark days of early February, that Yukon's wonderful African community would bring light, music, dance and pure joy to chase away the winter blues? [ English ] As we observe International Development Week and Black History Month, the Yukon African Music Festival, organized by Yukon's TELIYA International Society, highlights the rich variety of African culture. Award-winning artists from around the globe will be on stage or showcasing their work, bringing Yukoners of all backgrounds together in honour of African heritage. Beyond dancing and music, TELIYA is offering workshops and events about Black history, African culture, social change, leadership, music and youth empowerment.”
“Before closing, I send congratulations to newly elected premier, Currie Dixon, and his cabinet staff, who were just sworn in on Saturday. I know we will all be working together on priorities and opportunities for the Yukon. Let us keep Yukon strong and Canada strong.”
“Mr. Speaker, this fall season brings fresh momentum, new opportunities and renewed energy to the Yukon. Just last week at Yukon's annual Geoscience meeting, the mood in the room could not have been more positive. Members may ask why. It is because budget 2025 is replete with investments in the north, like the $1-billion Arctic infrastructure fund, the $2-billion critical mineral sovereign fund and the expanded critical mineral exploration tax credit. Add to those our government's ambitious Build Canada Homes to ensure that northerners have access to homes they can afford, and so much more. With the recent referral of the Yukon-B.C. grid connect to the Major Projects Office, we are also setting the stage for the longer term. We know how important clean power is to realize the full potential of Canada's northwest, including the Yukon.”
“Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the member for Courtenay—Alberni, who is a dear colleague of mine and a good friend. We have worked together on many issues we have in common. I take note of the issue he raised. I know that friendship centres are also incredibly important in my riding. I will certainly commit to finding out more about this funding and how we can go forward to resolve this problem, ensuring that services and resources for the needs of the indigenous people in my riding are honoured.”
“Mr. Speaker, this is an important question. There are so many examples of how important the investments in the budget are for the Yukon. Let me point out just one example. It is the $1-billion Arctic infrastructure fund. It is about building and expanding transportation assets in the Arctic. It is about airstrips. It is about deepwater ports, all-season roads and sealift infrastructure that would support both civilian and defence purposes. This is all about investing in infrastructure and investing in productivity. I cannot tell members how pleased people are in my riding and the entire Yukon to see this commitment to innovation, productivity, infrastructure and, going forward, building Canada and the north strong.”
“Mr. Speaker, I am very happy for the support that we are putting in this budget for Canadian culture and Canadian public media, including CBC/Radio-Canada. This is very important for Canadian heritage and Canadian identity, and I know that veterans will fully support it.”
“Mr. Speaker, that is a really important question. I could point out multiple projects, but I think that one of the key aspects is that when we are investing in infrastructure and when we are talking about national building, major projects and projects of national interest, it is all about cultivating indigenous partnership and making sure that we are working in lockstep with indigenous governments, indigenous leaders and indigenous communities.”
“Mr. Speaker, this budget is all about affordability and investing in the generations ahead of us. One feature I would just like to point out is automatic tax filing for people on lower income who are not currently accessing benefits like the Canada disability benefit. This includes people who will now be able to access benefits they may never have realized they are eligible for.”
“It builds opportunity by supporting indigenous housing, expanding Arctic transportation and strengthening the foundation of northern communities. It also empowers the Yukon to lead, recognizing that the north is not on the margins of Canada's story but at the heart of it.”
“This includes $20.4 billion to recruit and retain a strong fighting force with generational pay raises and improved health care, $19 billion to repair and sustain capabilities and invest in defence infrastructure, and $17.9 billion to expand Canada's military capabilities. However, these investments are not just about defence; they are also about building infrastructure that serves Canadians. Ports, airstrips and all-season roads in the north will have dual-use benefits, strengthening sovereignty while connecting communities and supporting economic growth. We are also investing $6.6 billion to strengthen Canada's defence industry through a new defence industrial strategy. Budget 2025 protects our fiscal strength while investing in housing, health care and infrastructure that Yukoners need.”
“We are also providing $660 million in ongoing funding for the Department of Women and Gender Equality, as I mentioned. Canada's security begins in the north. Budget 2025 makes the largest defence investment in a generation, because sovereignty is not optional. We are strengthening our Arctic capabilities and making sure our armed forces have the right tools, training and support they need. Defence spending is not just about protection; it is all about partnership, jobs and innovation that benefit the north as well as all of Canada. Budget 2025 commits $81.8 billion over five years to give the Canadian Armed Forces the tools and support it needs to meet today's threats.”
“We are also strengthening Canadian culture and connectivity. Budget 2025 provides $150 million to CBC/Radio-Canada to reinforce its mandate to serve Canadians and reflect their needs. We will explore modernizing its mandate to strengthen independence, and we are working with CBC/Radio-Canada on new opportunities. In addition, to make life more affordable and connected, budget 2025 renews the Canada strong pass with $116.3 million over two years, covering reduced-cost travel for the holiday season and summer 2026 through partners like Via Rail. Finally, we are investing in communities and equality. Budget 2025 launches the build communities strong fund, with $51 billion over 10 years plus $3 billion per year ongoing to support local infrastructure projects that help communities grow and thrive.”
“Budget 2025 lowers barriers for Canadians through a supplemental Canada disability benefit, and we are providing $660.5 million over five years in ongoing funding for the Department for Women and Gender Equality, ensuring sustained progress toward equality and safety for women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people. Budget 2025 also protects consumers. We will publish draft regulations by spring 2026 to prohibit investment and registered account transfer fees currently costing Canadians about $150 per account. We will require timely transfers and clear information for consumers, explore improving transparency on cross-border transfer fees and foreign exchange costs, and work with banks to simplify switching primary chequing accounts. The Financial Consumer Agency of Canada has been asked to report on the structure and transparency of bank fees.”
“This means investments we can feel in our daily lives: affordable housing, skilled trades training, and programs like the Canada strong pass. These measures are not abstract; they are about giving Canadians confidence in their future and pride in their country. Budget 2025 invests $1.5 billion to help young Canadians find and keep jobs, including expanding Canada summer jobs and strengthening the youth employment and skills strategy, as well as launching a new youth climate corps to train young people for paid roles in climate resilience and emergency response.”
“Health care also depends on innovation, and we are setting new targets at 2% growth for Canada's research councils: the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council, the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council and the Canadian Institutes of Health Research. These investments safeguard the councils' vital role in driving discovery, improving competitiveness and building the economy of the future. We are also launching the international talent attraction strategy to bring top-tier researchers to Canadian universities. (1050) Build Canada strong is the right theme for our times. I say this because our new government is focused on exactly that: building Canada, community by community and family by family.”
“This will help provinces and territories modernize hospitals and health facilities, a need we know is deeply felt across the country, especially in our communities in the north. Health agreements with provinces and territories will remain strong, with a focus on home and community care, as well as on mental health and addiction services. To strengthen our health workforce, budget 2025 introduces a foreign credential recognition action fund, with $97 million in new support. This will help internationally trained professionals put their skills to work faster, especially in health care, where every qualified worker makes a difference. To support people already working on the front lines, we are proposing a temporary personal support workers tax credit, providing up to $1,100 per year for eligible workers.”
“I believe at this time, as the mining industry continues to mature and grow, and as an unstable world demands ethical and responsible sources of minerals, that we will have a story to tell in the Yukon, and a rich, productive and sustainable future in this sector. Many people across the country know too well that our health care challenges are especially acute in the north, and I was proud to see a comprehensive assessment of health care and health care infrastructure needs in northern and Arctic communities. The goal is clear: Identify innovative ways to increase access to care and reduce costly medical travel, working in partnership with the north. This is in addition to the $5 billion dedicated to the new health infrastructure fund.”
“The budget also allows for additional critical minerals to be eligible for the critical mineral exploration tax credit through an expansion of the program. Budget 2025 also introduces the first and last mile fund to support critical minerals projects and supply chains. This fund will incorporate the critical minerals infrastructure fund with the goal of getting near-term critical mineral projects into production and supporting the necessary clean energy and transportation infrastructure. I was at the Geoscience forum in the Yukon last week. The buzz at the conference was palpable, with positive news both from these budget features and from confidence in the Yukon's energy future expressed by referring the Yukon grid intertie project to the Major Projects Office.”
“Here we will work with first nations, Inuit and Métis partners to ensure rapid and effective delivery and to coordinate a cross-government indigenous housing strategy. We will also launch the build community strong fund, with $51 billion to support housing-enabled infrastructure, health facilities and community projects. This fund will include a community stream, a direct delivery stream to address climate adaptation, and a provincial and territorial stream for housing, health and education infrastructure. The budget details the critical minerals sovereign fund, which will make strategic investments in critical minerals projects and companies, including equity investments, loan guarantees and offtake agreements.”
“We see the north reflected in it, from investments in housing, infrastructure and health care to defending and securing the Arctic and to the critical minerals that will power Canada's clean economy. When we invest in the north, we strengthen all of Canada. Budget 2025 delivers a bold plan to tackle Canada's housing challenges and strengthen Canada's communities across the country. At the heart of this plan is Build Canada Homes to build affordable housing at scale and to catalyze a new housing industry. We will leverage public lands, offer flexible financial incentives, attract private capital and support manufacturers to deliver. Included in the budget, importantly, is $2.8 billion for urban, rural and northern indigenous housing.”
“Mr. Speaker, I am thankful for the opportunity to rise today to speak to the 2025 budget implementation act. It is no secret that we are facing a rapidly changing and increasingly uncertain world. In the face of global disruption and uncertainty, Canada's new government is focused on what we can control. This is our plan to transform our economy from one that is reliant on a single trade partner to one that is stronger, more self-sufficient and more resilient to global shocks. This is a time to invest, especially in the north. Our plan builds on our strengths and delivers investments to build, protect and empower Canada. When I was at home in the Yukon last week, I heard from many people what this budget means for them.”
“Mr. Speaker, I thank the member again for her concerns about Inuit programs and hunters and trappers organizations, and for meeting directly with these organizations. These bodies are treaty obligations under the Nunavut land claims agreement and are essential for wildlife management and environmental reviews. Inadequate funding issues did change in March 2025 when Canada signed a renewed 10-year Nunavut agreement implementation contract, providing $1.5 billion through 2034, plus $77.6 million annually thereafter. That includes 39% more for the Nunavut Wildlife Management Board and 169% for hunters and trappers organizations and regional wildlife organizations, with annual budgets now indexed for inflation. There is lots more to say on this topic, and I will certainly be continuing to engage with the member on this important issue.”
“Our goal is to make certain that federal tools, financing and regulatory systems support indigenous communities in their involvement. I will briefly mention the $1-billion Arctic infrastructure fund, to be funded over four years to support economic development and job creation in northern communities while protecting Canada's sovereignty. In addition to protecting and advancing the interests of Canada and Inuit in Nunavut, we are proposing to amend the Territorial Lands Act to support responsible and respectable stewardship of Crown land in Nunavut. I will briefly mention the commitment to Inuit Nunangat University as well. These are just a few measures.”
“Special attention was paid in the renewal to make sure that these bodies would be sufficiently resourced to carry out their mandate under the Nunavut agreement. This renewed funding base approximately represents a 39% increase for the Nunavut Wildlife Management Board and a 169% increase for the regional wildlife organizations and hunters and trappers organizations. This, I believe, is significant. Before closing, I would like to take a moment to highlight a few other budget 2025 items that are good news for northerners. Many major projects today include indigenous and territorial governments, northern communities, financial institutions and development corporations in designing, financing and leading. That is reconciliation in action.”
“This contract provides $1.5 billion from 2024 to 2034, plus $77.6 million annually thereafter, to support NTI, the Government of Nunavut and five institutions of public government, including 27 hunters and trappers organizations and three regional wildlife organizations. This funding will strengthen their capacity to participate in environmental reviews and manage wildlife effectively. In 2024-25, the Government of Canada provided a renewed base annual budget of more than $7.5 million for the Nunavut Wildlife Management Board, $7.1 million for the regional wildlife organizations and $14 million for the hunters and trappers organizations. Funding is also adjusted annually for inflation.”
“For years, organizations in Nunavut have not received sufficient funding, and recent years have seen increased costs. Canada funds the Nunavut Wildlife Management Board, which, in turn, supports these organizations. This is a legal obligation. These organizations are expected to participate in environmental assessments, manage wildlife sustainably and uphold Inuit harvesting rights. Until recently, funding for these organizations was limited. In March 2025, the Government of Canada signed a renewed Nunavut agreement implementation contract with Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated and the Government of Nunavut for 2024 to 2034.”
“Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the member for Nunavut for raising serious concerns about funding for Inuit programs and the capacity of hunters and trappers organizations to participate in environmental assessments. She provides continued and very important advocacy for Nunavut. These are valid concerns, and they deserve a clear response. Article 5.7 of the Nunavut agreement sets out the special features of Inuit harvesting rights. It establishes hunters and trappers organizations in every community and regional wildlife organizations to manage quotas, regulate harvesting and represent Inuit interests in wildlife management. These bodies are not optional. They are treaty obligations and core institutions under the agreement. Again, I thank the member for Nunavut for raising these concerns.”
“Mr. Speaker, I am glad to have the chance to return some of the compliments. It would obviously take much more than a minute to return much of the esteem I have for the member for Saanich—Gulf Islands and her leadership on climate action for many years, as well as on so many other parliamentary issues. Arctic security and sovereignty are matters for all parties, all levels of government and the people who live across the Arctic. Regional and local engagement to integrate the perspectives and priorities of northerners will be central to unlocking economic potential across the north. We need to continue to work together so that we can keep the Northwest Passage safe through preparedness, strong partnership and persistent patrols.”
“In partnership with indigenous and territorial governments, and indeed all who live in the Arctic, we must continue to protect and define Canada's sovereignty so that the Arctic remains peaceful, secure and protected.”
“I was grateful to have the opportunity recently to meet with the Canadian ambassador to Finland to learn how this project is already revitalizing shipbuilding in Helsinki. Members of the Canadian Rangers, drawn from northern communities, continue to patrol, mentor and support operations across the north. Under “Our North, Strong and Free”, we are enhancing their equipment and mobility so they can do even more of what they do best: local leadership on the land and rapid support to civil authorities for search and rescue and emergency response. There is so much more to tell, and I again thank the member for Saanich—Gulf Islands for citing the article and raising the issue.”
“That is why our new government has made defending the Arctic one of Canada's highest national priorities by increasing our presence, sharpening our awareness and strengthening our ability to respond. We are modernizing our defence with Arctic and polar over-the-horizon sensors and enhanced undersea detection, delivering earlier warning, better tracking and faster response to any threats to Canada's north. We are also growing a persistent, visible presence at sea. The Harry DeWolf-class Arctic and offshore patrol ships are now operating each summer navigation season. Canada has also awarded contracts to two new polar icebreakers to ensure access to the High Arctic. Operating together, they will ensure continuous icebreaker function in the region, which is in collaboration with Finland.”
“Looking specifically at Nunavut through modern land claim agreements, Inuit governments manage vast lands and coastlines across Inuit Nunangat. The co-developed Inuit Nunangat policy ensures that every federal program and service in the region supports Inuit prosperity and self-determination. It is guided by a simple principle: nothing about us without us. That same co-development approach is foundational to the Arctic and northern policy framework. Our government's defence policy update, “Our North, Strong and Free”, recognizes that the Arctic is warming at four times the global average. Melting sea ice has opened up new shipping routes and attracted foreign interest. Climate threats are as pressing as geopolitical security threats.”
“In that time, I pointed out many areas where Arctic leaders and residents are taking the lead on Arctic defence, security and sovereignty, including with the upcoming Arctic summit in February 2026 in Whitehorse, which will bring together leaders from northern Canada, Alaska and Greenland to discuss Arctic security, infrastructure and economic development. It is hosted by the Whitehorse Chamber of Commerce and the Government of Yukon. As I said at committee, what leaders throughout the Arctic expressed is that they are here to partner with Canada in defining their sovereignty and protecting the Arctic from external threats, including climate-related environmental degradation and geopolitical threats.”
“Mr. Speaker, I thank the member for Saanich—Gulf Islands for asking about Canada's role in affirming Arctic sovereignty and appropriately citing the role of Arctic indigenous residents in protecting it. I am grateful for her sharing the article, which was also sent to me by a constituent of mine. I thank Karen. I think this is a reflection of how invested northerners are in Arctic sovereignty and Arctic security. Indeed, the member is correct in reminding us that Canada's sovereignty in the Arctic has always and should always depend on the presence and stewardship of Inuit Nunangat, northern first nations and all northern peoples. As it happens, the foreign affairs committee is currently conducting a study on Arctic sovereignty, and I was able to participate in asking questions of the panel last week.”
“We will measure our progress not by the dollars committed, but by the ability of every child to thrive, learn and dream without the burden of high food costs and hunger.”
“Mr. Speaker, I appreciate this member's advocacy for the people of Nunavut and, indeed, for the people across the north. I reaffirm this government's commitment to address food insecurity in northern communities on a priority basis. Programs like nutrition north Canada, the harvesters support grant and the community food programs fund, as well as the Inuit child first initiative, provide essential, much-needed support to children, families and individuals in the north. We will continue working with Inuit, indigenous, territorial and other partners to improve existing services and develop new ones that are viable and culturally appropriate solutions for families in the north.”
“It supports traditional hunting, harvesting and food-sharing activities in isolated communities while reinforcing cultural practices. This is about food autonomy and food security. Wherever I go in the north, the harvesters support grant receives a lot of positive feedback, and I believe that there are many more communities that could benefit from it. There is a lot to describe. I will conclude for now by saying that while progress has been made, we recognize that a lot more needs to be done to address systemic challenges in the north. We remain committed to working with Inuit, territorial and community partners to build lasting and locally driven solutions.”
“Each has a distinct role in supporting food security and family well-being in Inuit communities. Nutrition north Canada's subsidy helps lower the price of food and essential items. Last year, the program's retail subsidy was just under $145 million. It increases by roughly 5% annually. To better meet the needs of northerners, in February 2025, Aluki Kotierk was appointed as the minister's special representative to lead a review of NNC and produce a report. Her report will be really important to inform reforms to the program. To inform the review, retailers, suppliers, local growers, food producers and charitable organizations participating must show how the subsidy reduces costs for consumers. The harvesters support grant is another way that food security is being addressed.”
“There is much work to do there together to restore the salmon to even a fraction of its former abundance. While there, we also visited the local co-op store and had a chance to see some of the high food prices, even with the northern food subsidy that is applied to a variety of foods there. Everything in Old Crow has to be flown in. This is one more example where addressing food insecurity takes concerted effort and collaboration among indigenous partners, all governments, self-governing first nations and the Government of Canada. Our government is addressing food insecurity in the north through nutrition north Canada, which includes retail subsidies, the harvesters support grant and the community food programs fund, as well as the Inuit child first initiative, which my colleague referred to.”
“Mr. Speaker, we do indeed recognize the hardships faced by Inuit and by all residents in Nunavut and indeed across the north, where the cost of food and the cost of basic necessities continue to pose real challenges, particularly for families. In Nunavut alone, 42% of children live in poverty. That is the highest rate in Canada. I know that behind these statistics are real lives and real struggles. Just this past weekend, I had the good fortune to travel to Old Crow, mainly on the theme of the devastating loss of Chinook and chum salmon in the Porcupine River, part of the Yukon River system. In addition to the effect that has on the community's food supply, it also means significant losses over the decades to the culture and the very identity and heritage of the Gwich’in people.”