Det Udenrigspolitiske Nævn 2021-22
UPN Alm.del Bilag 304
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UPN
Clerk of the Senate
Received by the
Alm.del - Bilag 304
Offentligt
Reçu par le greffier du Sénat
March 30, 2021 8:42am
30 mars 2021 8h42
Gérald Lafrenière
Interim Clerk of the Senate and Clerk of the Parliaments
and Chief Legislative Services Officer
2 Rideau Street, Room A408
Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0A4
March 30,
2021
Dear Mr. Lafrenière,
I am pleased to enclose, in both official languages, the Government Response to the
4th Report of the Special Senate Committee on the Arctic entitled,
Northern Lights: A
Wake-Up Call for the Future of Canada,
for tabling in the Senate.
Sincerely,
Hon. Daniel Vandal, P.C., M.P.
Encl.
UPN, Alm.del - 2021-22 - Bilag 304: Senator Pattersons arktiske rapport
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Government Response to the 4
th
Report of the Special Senate Committee on the
Arctic
“Northern
Lights: A Wake-Up Call for the Future of
Canada”
INTRODUCTION
I am pleased to respond, on behalf of the Government of Canada, to the Fourth Report
of the Special Senate Committee on the Arctic, entitled
Northern Lights: A Wake Up Call
for the Future of Canada.
The Government of Canada thanks the Committee for their valuable study of the Arctic
and its peoples and agrees with the spirit and intent of the recommendations. The
Government would also like to thank the witnesses from across the country who
participated in this important study. The
Committee’s
recommendations align with many
of the actions the Government has proactively been taking to address the challenges
and threats associated with healthy northern economies, cultures and communities;
environmental conservation; the use of Indigenous and scientific knowledge; the Arctic
in a global context; and the lack of adequate infrastructure
in Canada’s northern
and
Arctic regions.
Since the conclusions of the
Committee’s study
in spring 2019, the Government of
Canada has undertaken significant action in the North, launching the Arctic and
Northern
Policy Framework (“the Framework”) and making progress in its co-
development and implementation. The intention of the Framework is to define and
address shared priorities with a greater emphasis on deepened relationships,
reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples, and enhanced collaboration and partnerships. It
is a long-term vision that reflects the needs and priorities of the Arctic and Northern
region and its peoples.
Canada recognizes that federal Arctic policies of the past have not succeeded in
building a strong, sustainable region that provides the same opportunities expected by
most Canadians. Insufficient physical and social infrastructure has hindered
opportunities for growth and prosperity in the region. Directing Arctic policy from the
south has not closed the gaps in well-being between Arctic and northern people and the
rest of the country. In trying to close those gaps, we have taken an approach that has
not been tried by the Government of Canada before. Inspired by the consensus
traditions of Arctic and northern Indigenous Peoples, the federal government sought to
engage representatives of territories, provinces, and Indigenous Peoples as partners in
co-developing this policy framework. All have made considerable contributions.
UPN, Alm.del - 2021-22 - Bilag 304: Senator Pattersons arktiske rapport
HEALTHY ECONOMIES TO BENEFIT THE ARCTIC
1. THAT THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADA ADOPT A CONSISTENT DEFINITION OF
THE ARCTIC WITH RESPECT TO LEGISLATION, POLICY DIRECTIVES AND
PROGRAMS
Canada’s vision for the Framework takes into account both the “Arctic” and “Northern”
character of the region and those who live there; it is a policy framework for
Canada’s
Arctic and North that includes the entirety of Inuit Nunangat, the Inuit homeland in
Canada.
The Framework takes an inclusive and flexible approach to the geographic scope of
Canada’s Arctic and Northern
regions. Federal Departments/Agencies will continue to
have the flexibility to develop eligibility criteria at the program-level, based on existing
program authorities and program objectives. This will allow a targeted approach for
Arctic policies and programs. Given the sheer size of the region, the interests and
needs of our partners differ from community to community. The realities in the north that
Whitehorse faces are not the realities of Kuujjuaq in Quebec, nor Iqaluit in Nunavut.
For example, Budget 2019 allocated an additional $400 million to support infrastructure
development by funding projects that improve the flow of goods and people in Canada,
through
Transport Canada’s (TC) National Trade Corridors Fund (NTCF). The
geographic scope of the northern call for proposals on October 23, 2020 aligned with
the Framework; it included the three territories; the Nunatsiavut region in northern
Labrador; the Nunavik region in Quebec; and the Town and Port of Churchill, including
related infrastructure assets, in northern Manitoba. Through the northern call for
proposals, the NTCF encourages eligible applicants to propose projects that address
transportation needs of Arctic and Northern communities, including safety, climate
change adaptation, and fostering socio-economic development opportunities.
The Government of Canada recognizes that barriers still exist with the lack of funding to
northern and remote regions. Moving forward, the co-development and co-
implementation process of the Framework will improve the ability to adequately address
the needs of all Arctic and Northern communities.
2. THAT THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADA DEVELOP A STRATEGY THAT: 1)
EMPOWERS ARCTIC AND NORTHERN GOVERNMENTS TO ASSUME ROLES IN
DELIVERING FEDERAL PROGRAMS AND SERVICES TO ITS RESIDENTS; AND 2)
DEVOLVES FEDERAL PROGRAMS AND SERVICES RELATED TO THE ARCTIC
AND NORTHERN REGIONS TO LOCAL, TERRITORIAL AND INDIGENOUS
GOVERNMENTS
The Framework is now in the implementation phase with Indigenous, provincial, and
territorial partners. Framework partners are, initially, working towards establishing
governance regimes to implement the Framework. This process empowers our partners
to take a prominent role in determining their specific regional priorities. Though still in its
UPN, Alm.del - 2021-22 - Bilag 304: Senator Pattersons arktiske rapport
early stages, the development of governance models will allow our partners more input
on when and how programs are delivered within their communities.
This recommendation also relates to the 8th goal of the Framework, to ensure that
“reconciliation supports self-determination
and nurtures mutually respectful relationships
between Indigenous and non-Indigenous
peoples.” An objective under this goal is to
“Complete
outstanding devolution commitments, including the devolution of Land, inland
waters and resource management in
Nunavut.”
The collaborative approach to policy development mentioned above demonstrates the
Government’s
commitments to empowering Northerners to be partners in the design
and delivery of programs and services, and to devolving federal responsibilities into the
hands of Arctic and Northern residents.
In addition to the Framework, some departments are already designing and
implementing programs and initiatives with input from our partners. To ensure
Canadians make informed decisions based on changing weather, water, and climate
conditions, Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) provides information and
services for public safety and weather-sensitive operations in the north. Ongoing
collaboration and engagement with territorial partners and Northern communities is part
of routine operations.
The Government of Canada has also been identifying its land interests in Nunavut in
advance of Nunavut devolution. The devolution of province-like responsibilities to the
territories is a long-standing federal policy objective. It seeks to ensure greater local
control and accountability for decisions, and helps facilitate Crown reconciliation with
northern Indigenous Peoples. Nunavut is the last jurisdiction in the country without
responsibilities for public lands and resources. The parties negotiating this transfer - the
Government of Nunavut, Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated, and the Government of
Canada
reached, in August 2019, an agreement-in-principle for devolution, and
negotiations on a Final Agreement have begun.
The Inuit-Crown Partnership Committee (ICPC) was created in February 2017. The
Committee is co-chaired by the Prime Minister and President of the Inuit Tapiriit
Kanatami and elected Inuit leadership from the Inuvialuit Regional Corporation, Nunavut
Tunngavik Incorporated, Makivik Corporation and Nunatsiavut Government. To-date,
ten shared priorities for joint action that create socio-economic, cultural and
environmental conditions for success through the full implementation of land claims
agreements have been identified to advance reconciliation.
UPN, Alm.del - 2021-22 - Bilag 304: Senator Pattersons arktiske rapport
3. THAT THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADA: 1) PROVIDE GREATER FINANCIAL
SUPPORT TOWARDS THE IMPLEMENTATION OF COMPREHENSIVE LAND
CLAIMS AGREEMENTS, INCLUDING LAND USE PLANNING PROCESSES AND
GOVERNANCE OF REGULATORY BOARDS; AND 2) CONSULT AND COOPERATE
WITH INDIGENOUS AND TERRITORIAL GOVERNMENTS TO DEVELOP CO-
MANAGEMENT REGIMES WITH RESPECT TO THE ARCTIC OFFSHORE WATERS
The Framework is well-aligned to addressing this recommendation with our partners as
it includes the relevant goals of ensuring
that “Canadian Arctic and northern
ecosystems
are healthy
and resilient” and that “Reconciliation supports self-determination
and
nurtures mutually respectful relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous
peoples.”
Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada (CIRNAC) is working closely
with Indigenous and territorial governments to identify financial requirements associated
with land use planning initiatives in the Northwest Territories and Nunavut. The
Nunavut
Agreement
establishes Nunavut’s
Institutions of Public Governance (IPGs) as the
cornerstone of the cooperative management of land and resources. These institutions
are critical to economic development and environmental protection in the territory as
they are integral to municipal development, traditional harvesting of wildlife, the
protection of endangered species, and the responsible resource development of
Nunavut’s
natural resources.
The IPGs are independent, arms-length institutions, with Canada as their sole funding
provider. Each IPG plays a key role in Nunavut’s
regulatory and co-management
systems. For example, in 2020-21, the Nunavut Planning Commission was provided
with $2 million in supplementary funding to complete a new draft of the
Nunavut Land
Use Plan.
The Government of Canada is committed to effective implementation of modern treaties
(comprehensive land claims agreements). CIRNAC is currently in discussions with all
modern treaty partners to modernize their fiscal arrangements, including ensuring they
have access to sufficient fiscal resources to meet their expenditure needs as set out in
their modern treaties. As well, funding for many boards established pursuant to those
agreements has recently been updated to reflect modern challenges, and discussions
with other partners are underway.
In response to the portion of the recommendation pertaining to the development of co-
management regimes for the Arctic offshore, TC is supporting the development of the
Nunavut Marine Council under the $1.5 billion Oceans Protection Plan, launched in
November 2016 as the largest investment
ever made to protect Canada’s coasts and
waterways. Collaboration is the cornerstone of programs and initiatives launched under
the Plan; the Government of Canada values the traditional knowledge and expertise of
Canada’s Indigenous
Peoples and coastal communities, and has met with Indigenous
groups to begin discussions on establishing implementation strategies to support the
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Plan.
In collaboration with TC, the Canadian Coast Guard (Coast Guard) is leading on key
Oceans Protection Plan activities, including Northern Low-Impact Shipping Corridors.
As part of this initiative, Coast Guard and TC are working with Inuit, First Nation, and
Metis partners to identify priority areas of investment and a collaborative governance
framework for the design and management of marine corridors.
To implement the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) and Coast Guard Arctic
Regions, DFO and Coast Guard are engaging with Inuit, First Nations and Métis
partners on the development of a collaborative governance framework to enhance the
delivery of programs and services that meet the needs of Northern communities.
Adequately funding comprehensive land claims agreements empowers northern
beneficiaries to have the resources, tools and information required to effectively
manage and implement the intentions outlined within the agreements. Additional
funding can provide timely and necessary land use information to ensure that the
management of land and resources occurs as the local beneficiaries intended (through,
for example, the provision of enhanced capacity building and support for local
communities in land use planning).
4. THAT THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADA APPOINT A MINISTER OF NORTHERN
AFFAIRS IN CONTROL OF ITS OWN PARLIAMENTARY APPROPRIATION AND
THAT THIS CABINET POSITION REPORT ANNUALLY TO PARLIAMENT ON ITS
ACTIVITIES
After the 2019 election, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau appointed Dan Vandal as the first
Minister of Northern Affairs. Minister Vandal was mandated to improve the quality of life
and economic opportunities of Northerners while simultaneously acting in support of
Canada’s sovereignty
and national interests. The appointment of a Minister of Northern
Affairs coincided with the release of the Framework; it well positions the government to
strengthen its relationships with Indigenous and Territorial governments and, through
the co-development model, advance policies and programs that are for and by
Northerners.
In 2020, the Minister of Northern Affairs was dedicated to ensuring Northerners
remained healthy, safe, and supported through the COVID-19 pandemic. By doing so,
the federal government was able to respond quickly and effectively to territorial and
Indigenous partners, including through the provision of health and social services
supports; business assistance; investments to maintain critical air transportation
services, supply chains, and to address food insecurity; and support for territorial
governments’
isolation hubs. Throughout this extraordinary year, Northern Affairs
Canada was a dedicated resource to Northern partners in fighting the pandemic.
Throughout the pandemic, Northern Affairs continued to make important progress with
partners. In November 2020, the first Arctic and Northern Policy Framework Leadership
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Committee meeting took place to discuss governance mechanisms and priorities.
Additional investments were made in green energy and off-diesel initiatives through
Northern Affairs Canada climate change programs, and the Government continued to
prioritize science and research through its supports for Polar Knowledge Canada, which
operates the Canadian High Arctic Research Station. These supports will ensure that
northern research reflects the priorities of Indigenous partners and that Indigenous
Knowledge is a critical component to the work being done.
Overall, the appointment of the first Minister of Northern Affairs has made a significant
contribution to achieving progress on government priorities during a very difficult year
for Canadians.
5. THAT THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADA, IN PARTNERSHIP WITH INDIGENOUS
AND TERRITORIAL GOVERNMENTS, ESTABLISH AN ARCTIC INFRASTRUCTURE
BANK TO FUND NEW INFRASTRUCTURE AND MITIGATE THE EFFECTS OF
CLIMATE CHANGE ON EXISTING INFRASTRUCTURE, AND TO ENSURE THE
FUNDS ARE DIRECTED BASED ON ARCTIC NEEDS
Through the Framework, the Government is committed to strong, sustainable,
diversified and inclusive local and regional economies. However, the Government does
not at present support the establishment of an Arctic Infrastructure Bank. The
government is aware that infrastructure funding initiatives are complex and piecemeal,
that they do not always allow for large, long term investments to advance northern
priorities, and that there are inequalities with the overall infrastructure
in Canada’s
northern region in comparison to the rest of the country that need to be addressed.
Closing these gaps is a top priority for the Government of Canada, with the aim of
achieving more efficient and effective transportation, communications, and clean energy
usage in the Canadian Arctic and North.
This recommendation aligns well with the priorities of the Framework, the second goal
of which looks to achieve “Strengthened infrastructure
that closes gaps with other
regions in Canada”. An objective of this goal is to “Integrate climate change resilience
into new and existing
infrastructure.”
The 2020 Speech from the Throne further committed the Government to providing
infrastructure investments towards clean energy and energy-efficient retrofits. To that
end, funding to support the Framework, and by extension northern infrastructure, will be
coordinated through internal and external governance mechanisms.
Some programs which address this recommendation already are in place. For example,
the Government of Canada has recognized the challenges posed by climate change in
the North, and its significant impacts on northern infrastructure. Through
Canada’s
previous climate action plan, the
Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and
Climate Change,
the Government worked with provinces, territories, and Indigenous
Peoples to enhance resilience and strengthen capacity and leadership to support more
sustainable and climate resilient northern infrastructure.
UPN, Alm.del - 2021-22 - Bilag 304: Senator Pattersons arktiske rapport
The Canada Infrastructure Bank (CIB), with a $35 billion investment capacity, is another
example. The CIB has a mandate to work with governments and Indigenous
communities to identify infrastructure needs and address gaps through the use of
innovative financing tools and partnerships that attract private investment to
infrastructure projects that are in the public interest. It is already focused on a number of
projects to support the north, including the Kivalliq Hydro-Fibre Link and the Talston
Hydroelectric project.
To attract private investment and partner with private, public and Indigenous
proponents, the CIB has a mandate to invest at least $5 billion in trade and
transportation, including ports, rail and logistics highway, and bridge projects. It
continues to seek opportunities in the North and to partner with Indigenous groups and
government departments such as CIRNAC, Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) and
CanNor on projects that assist rural and remote communities using its revenue
generating model, in areas such as broadband, renewable energy generation to off-set
diesel, and trade and transportation infrastructure.
Through investments made in the federal budgets of 2016 and 2017,
CIRNAC’s
Climate
Change Preparedness in the North initiative received over $77 million over eleven years
to strengthen climate change adaptation in the North. The program aims at increasing
northern and Indigenous communities and
governments’
resilience to climate change by
supporting vulnerability assessments, adaptation planning, and by implementing non-
structural and structural adaptation measures.
In addition, through the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program, the Government of
Canada is making new investments in infrastructure to provide communities across the
country with the tools they need to prosper and innovate, including $1.6 billion in
investments dedicated to the territories. The program has been updated to adapt to the
context of COVID-19, as the COVID-19 Resilience Stream. In 2020, it supported
pandemic recovery efforts by rapidly advancing the project approval process to allow for
work to get underway. The federal cost-share for this stream was raised to 100% of
eligible project costs for the territories. Funding is supporting projects in four categories:
retrofits, repairs and upgrades, COVID-19 resilience infrastructure, active transportation
infrastructure, and disaster mitigation and adaptation infrastructure.
While the government recognizes that much work needs to be undertaken to improve
Arctic infrastructure, it is proud to have recently been a part of some large infrastructure
projects in the North. For example, the Inuvik-Tuktoyaktuk Highway opened in
November 2017 after four years of construction. Previously, Tuktoyaktuk was only
accessible by air during warmer months and by ice road in the winter. As a result of the
new linkage, residents have improved access to health care, educational, and economic
opportunities; Inuvik’s
role as the regional commercial and business hub has been
strengthened and expanded; goods can now be shipped year-round to Tuktoyaktuk;
and tourism is projected to increase by $2.7 million annually. Further, the Government
continued work on the Iqaluit Deep Sea Port during 2020; the port is anticipated to open
UPN, Alm.del - 2021-22 - Bilag 304: Senator Pattersons arktiske rapport
in 2021. This project received funding from the federal government in 2016 and is
expected to result in benefits such as faster offloading of sealift vessels at Iqaluit; and
greater all-tide access for ocean-going vessels. Finally, the government provided $21.5
million in funding for the
Gray’s
Bay Road and Port Project. This 230 km road will be the
first land connection of Nunavut to the rest of Canada. It will link the rich mineral
resources of Canada’s Slave Geological Province to Arctic shipping routes; make the
territories more attractive for economic investment; and provide a major boost in
economic development for Northerners. These projects, along with the others listed in
this response, will help to close the infrastructure gap and improve the quality of life of
Northerners.
6. THAT THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADA: 1) DIRECT THE NATIONAL RESEARCH
COUNCIL TO COMPLETE A BUILDING CODE ADAPTED TO ARCTIC CONDITIONS
AND THE EFFECTS OF CLIMATE CHANGE; 2) IMPLEMENT AN ACTION PLAN TO
MITIGATE THE EFFECTS OF CLIMATE CHANGE ON EXISTING AND NEW
INFRASTRUCTURE, INCLUDING HOUSING; 3) TAKE IMMEDIATE MEASURES TO
ADDRESS THE HOUSING CRISIS IN THE ARCTIC BY FUNDING A COMPLETE
CONTINUUM OF ARCTIC HOUSING; AND 4) REPORT ON THE EFFECTS OF ITS
INVESTMENTS ON HOUSING ANNUALLY TO LOCAL, INDIGENOUS AND
TERRITORIAL GOVERNMENTS
The second goal of the Framework looks
to achieve “Strengthened infrastructure
that
closes gaps with other regions in Canada”. One
of the objectives for this goal is to
“Integrate
climate change resilience into new and existing
infrastructure.”
Going forward,
the government hopes to address these objectives completely; the work already
underway is noted below.
Inadequate housing has particularly affected low-income and Indigenous Peoples and
other Northern residents during the pandemic. Poor conditions and lack of privacy are
inadequate for safe quarantines, especially if the household is overcrowded. Many
Indigenous Peoples live in multiple-generation family homes.
The National Research Council of Canada (NRC) is working with the First Nations
National Building Officers Association (FNNBOA) and an Indigenous Advisory group to
develop a
Technical Guide for Northern Housing,
which will provide best practices for
successful home construction in Northern areas. To develop this guide, NRC consulted
with First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities and architects on home design specific
to Indigenous and Northern housing needs. This four-year project is a collaboration
between NRC, Natural Resources Canada, the Canada Mortgage and Housing
Corporation, and ISC.
The NRC is also collaborating in the development and review of the Standards Council
of Canada’s Northern
Infrastructure Standardization Initiative for Northern buildings,
including a reference to a new standard in the
National Building Code of Canada;
working with Infrastructure Canada (INFC) to address the effects of climate change on
both buildings and core public infrastructure, with some solutions adaptable to Northern
UPN, Alm.del - 2021-22 - Bilag 304: Senator Pattersons arktiske rapport
communities; and extensively involved in research partnerships supporting adaptation
measures for Northern infrastructure and housing.
ECCC, in collaboration with the NRC and the Pacific Impact Climate Consortium,
published a report in October 2020 entitled
Climate-Resilient Buildings and Core Public
Infrastructure: an assessment of the impact of climate change on climatic design data in
Canada.
The report assesses how climatic design data relevant to users of the
National
Building Code of Canada
and the
Canadian Highway Bridge Design Code
might change
as the climate continues to warm. Assessments are made at the regional-to-national
scale, including
Canada’s
northern region.
The federal government is committed to providing northern communities with support to
develop local, sustainable, and climate resilient infrastructure, including housing
solutions. In 2016, the Government of Canada adopted the
Pan-Canadian Framework
on Clean Growth and Climate Change
developed with the provinces and territories
and in consultation with Indigenous Peoples
to meet its emissions reduction targets,
grow the economy, and build resilience to a changing climate.
As noted in the response to Recommendation 5, through investments made in the 2016
and 2017 federal budgets,
CIRNAC’s
Climate Change Preparedness in the North
received over $77 million to strengthen climate change adaptation in the North. This
includes working with federal partners such as the Standards Councils of Canada, and
with local partners such as territorial governments and communities, to integrate newly
developed northern-specific infrastructure standards into decision-making processes.
Additionally, the Government of
Canada released, in 2018, Canada’s first ever
National
Housing Strategy,
a $40 billion, 10-year plan that aims to achieve safe and affordable
housing
for all Canadians. The strategy recognizes that “housing
challenges in
Canada’s North
are very different than in the rest of the
country”;
it provided $300
million in funding in 2018 to the territorial governments to help offset the higher need
and cost of housing.
As part of the Government
of Canada’s updated 2020 Climate Plan
A Healthy
Environment and a Healthy Economy,
and building on the successes of the Pan-
Canadian Framework, the Government
is proposing to develop Canada’s first-ever
National Adaptation Strategy,
working with provincial, territorial, and municipal
governments, Indigenous Peoples, and other key partners. The plan includes an
investment of $1.5 billion over three years for green and inclusive community buildings
through retrofits, repairs, upgrades, and new builds; this would support job creation,
local economic growth, contribute to climate objectives, and serve disadvantaged
populations. At least 10% of this funding will be allocated to projects serving First
Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities, including those in the Arctic and the North.
While many programs exist to address infrastructure gaps, the Government recognizes
that more needs to be done to address housing needs and northern infrastructure. We
are committed to helping our partners achieve the housing related objectives of the
UPN, Alm.del - 2021-22 - Bilag 304: Senator Pattersons arktiske rapport
Framework. Going forward through the Framework co-implementation process, we are
working with our partners to improve housing outcomes in the north.
7. THAT THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADA ESTABLISH A BROADBAND
TELECOMMUNICATIONS ACTION PLAN WITH DEDICATED FUNDS TO SUPPORT
FIBRE DEPLOYMENT TO UNDERSERVED REGIONS IN THE CANADIAN ARCTIC
BY MARCH 2020
This recommendation aligns well with the second goal of the Framework:
“Strengthened
infrastructure that closes gaps with other regions of
Canada”.
It specifically corresponds
to two objectives for that goal: fast, reliable, and affordable broadband connectivity for
all; and development of multi-purpose corridors for broadband, energy, and
transportation, including connections to hydroelectricity grids.
Canada’s Arctic communities are spread across large distances with difficult and remote
geography, which makes the business case for network expansion challenging. Many
Northern and Indigenous communities struggle to make full use of the Internet due to
unreliable and costly telecommunications services. The lack of connectivity also raises
concerns about prolonged impacts on educational outcomes for regional youth. This
concern has been especially prevalent during the COVID-19 pandemic, during which in-
person meetings have been restricted; the transition to virtual education and healthcare
has been hindered or prevented in the north because of its connectivity deficits.
Canadians need reliable access to affordable, high-speed Internet, as it enables
economic development opportunities and allows for the use of key tools like telehealth
and e-learning. Nationally, household access to high-speed broadband Internet of at
least 50/10 Mbps reached 87.4% in 2019. However, only 45.6% of rural and 32.5% of
First Nation households on reserve have access to this speed, compared to 98.6% of
urban homes. In the North, the lack of high-speed Internet access is even more acute.
In June 2019 the Government of Canada released
High-Speed Access for All: Canada's
Connectivity Strategy,
a plan to ensure all Canadians have access to fast and reliable
internet, no matter where they live. The strategy sets out universal connectivity targets;
includes affordability, reliability, and scalability considerations; and recognizes the need
to work with partners and other levels of governments to roll out funding in a
coordinated fashion.
The federal government has provided billions in connectivity infrastructure funding to
support the Strategy, with the goal of connecting all Canadians to high-speed internet
by 2030. This funding includes: the $585 million Connect to Innovate (CTI) program; the
$2 billion Rural and Northern stream
of INFC’s
Investing in Canada Infrastructure
Program (ICIP), under which broadband projects are eligible; the $750 million Canadian
Radio-Television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) Broadband Fund; the
$2 billion for broadband financing available under the
CIB’s
Growth Plan,
and the $1.75
billion Universal Broadband Fund, launched in fall 2020. CanNor also has
complementary programming that can support small scale construction and capacity
building.
UPN, Alm.del - 2021-22 - Bilag 304: Senator Pattersons arktiske rapport
Through these supports, a number of federally funded projects have already been
announced that will improve connectivity in the Arctic and the North, with more
anticipated to follow. Given the vast and challenging
landscape of Canada’s Arctic, a
variety of network infrastructure and technological solutions will be needed to achieve
Canada’s universal
high-speed connectivity target in the region. Substantial investments
are thus being made not only in fibre, but also in satellite technologies.
Various current examples of terrestrial fibre deployment and expansion initiatives can
be cited:
Innovation,
Science and Economic Development Canada’s CTI Program is
funding a $62.6 million project to improve connectivity for 14 Inuit communities in
Nunavik, Quebec, which includes an undersea fibre link in the Hudson Bay.
In 2019, Nunavut dedicated its entire ICIP Rural and Northern stream allocation
($151 million) to a fibre broadband project that will connect Iqaluit and Kimmirut
through undersea fibre.
A fibre line is being built along the Dempster highway from Dawson, Yukon, to
Inuvik, Northwest Territories, with $30 million in support from the CTI program,
$29 million from ICIP and $5 million from the Yukon government. This link will
help form a fibre loop, which will ensure more robust service and prevent outages
in Yukon and in the Mackenzie Valley region of the Northwest Territories.
Federal capacity building support of over $1.6 million was provided by CanNor in
2019-20 to conduct a two-year technical and feasibility study for a hydroelectric
and fibre-optic link between Northern Manitoba and the Kivalliq region of
Nunavut.
Both fibre and satellite projects have been announced under the CRTC Broadband
Fund. The program’s first call for applications
focussed on the territories and satellite-
dependent communities in the North. Successful projects under this call were
announced in August 2020, with five projects being awarded $72 million to connect 51
communities in northern Manitoba, the Northwest Territories, and Yukon. In February
2020, a further five projects were awarded $26.67 million in funding from the second,
national call with more project announcements forthcoming.
Investments are also being made in Low Earth Orbit satellite technology - a promising
high-speed solution for the most challenging to reach areas of the Arctic. To help
connect these remote communities, the Government of Canada has partnered with
Telesat and invested up to $600 million to secure LEO satellite capacity over Canada
once
Telesat’s
constellation is operational. These satellites are anticipated to provide
high-bandwidth, low-latency
broadband internet coverage to Canada’s far North in
2022. Another notable CTI satellite investment saw the connection of all 25 Nunavut
communities via a high-throughput satellite.
Overall, through implementation of
Canada’s Connectivity Strategy,
historic broadband
investments and support from all stakeholders, progress has been and will continue to
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be made to reach our goal of connecting all Canadians to high-speed internet, no matter
where they live.
8. THAT THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADA ENSURE ARCTIC AND NORTHERN
COMMUNITIES HAVE RELIABLE AND SECURE FORMS OF ENERGY, INCLUDING
RENEWABLE ENERGY AND ALTERNATES TO DIESEL BASED ON LOCALLY
IDENTIFIED PRIORITIES AND OPPORTUNITIES
The second goal of the Framework,
“Strengthened
infrastructure that closes gaps with
other regions of
Canada,” and specifically its objective to “Achieve energy
security and
sustainability in all communities and improve access to reliable, affordable and clean
energy solutions,”
is well-aligned with this recommendation, and work is underway to
address it. Ensuring that Arctic and northern communities have reliable and secure
forms of energy also aligns with the Government
of Canada’s commitments set out in
the
Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change.
In 2019, the Government of Canada committed to ensuring that all communities,
including Arctic and northern Indigenous communities that currently rely on diesel, are
powered by clean, reliable energy by 2030. Prior to this commitment, in 2016 the
Government of Canada invested $53.5 million over 10 years through
CIRNAC’s
Northern Responsible Energy Approach for Heat and Electricity program (Northern
REACHE) to implement clean energy projects in off-grid Indigenous and northern
communities. In 2017, a further $220 million over four years was announced through
Natural Resources Canada’s (NRCan)
Clean Energy for Rural and Remote
Communities program for initiatives to reduce reliance on diesel fuel in rural and remote
communities. This targeted funding was significantly augmented by the $1.6 billion
committed over 12 years in Budget 2019 under the
Investing in Canada Plan
for
infrastructure development, including $400 million for the Arctic Energy Fund to help
people in northern communities access more reliable and renewable energy.
In support of the 2019 commitment,
Canada’s strengthened
Climate Plan, announced in
December 2020, earmarks an additional $300 million to transition northern and remote
Indigenous communities toward more secure, affordable clean energy.
In addition, the CIB recently announced $2.5 billion for clean power to support
renewable generation and storage and to transmit clean electricity between provinces,
territories, and regions, including to northern and Indigenous communities. As well, the
CIB’s
Growth Plan
included $2 billion to invest in large-scale building retrofits to
increase energy efficiency.
Implementation of the ambitious 2019 commitment is shared between NRCan, INFC,
CIRNAC, and ISC, as stated in their respective mandate letters. Specific federal actions
to reduce reliance on diesel fuel in rural, remote, Indigenous and northern communities
include:
UPN, Alm.del - 2021-22 - Bilag 304: Senator Pattersons arktiske rapport
funding support for
Nunavut’s
first hybrid diesel and solar energy power plant,
which began construction in 2020;
NRCan support for over 40 northern initiatives that are building capacity and
deploying clean energy projects that will displace diesel fuel;
partnering with Ontario to advance the First Nation-led Wataynikaneyap Power
project, which will connect 16 remote northern First Nations to the provincial
electricity grid;
the Impact Canada Indigenous Off-Diesel Initiative, which, in 2019. selected
Community Energy Champions from seven provinces and territories which are
now working with their communities to develop and implement ambitious clean
energy plans;
The Clean Energy for Rural and Remote Communities program, which has
funded 87 demonstration and deployment of renewable energy projects which
encourage energy efficiency and work to build capacity in rural and remote
communities;
the Northern Responsible Energy Approach for the Community Heat and
Electricity Program, which has supported 59 clean energy projects in northern
communities since 2018;
CanNor investments, since 2015, of $31.1 million in 63 clean technology projects
across the Territories, supported by actions under the Low Carbon Economy
Fund (for example, Yukon was provided $31 million to expand existing retrofit
programs to help homeowners, businesses, municipalities, First Nation
governments, and local industries increase the energy efficiency of existing
buildings); and
Polar Knowledge Canada work with northern communities, government partners
and academia to advance sustainable energy, technology and infrastructure
solutions for the unique environmental, social and cultural conditions in the North
by testing and demonstrating technologies that are close to, or beyond,
commercialisation prior to their deployment in northern communities.
Finally, the Government of Canada is working closely with Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami and
Inuit land claims organizations to implement the
National Inuit Climate Change Strategy,
including support for regional and community-driven energy solutions that will enable
Inuit energy independence.
Federal departments will continue to work collaboratively to support Arctic and northern
communities to pursue their clean energy ambitions. This includes coordinating and
streamlining efforts to ensure that communities have ready access to federal funding
and expertise to facilitate their transition to clean energy, to both create jobs and
contribute to building a strong, diversified, sustainable and dynamic northern economy.
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9. THAT THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADA SUPPORT INDIGENOUS AND/OR
TERRITORIAL GOVERNMENTS TO: 1) INCREASE FUNDING FOR BASIC ADULT
EDUCATION IN THE ARCTIC; 2) ENSURE STUDENTS CAN PURSUE STUDIES IN
THEIR INDIGENOUS LANGUAGE; AND 3) SUPPORT THE GOVERNMENT OF
NUNAVUT TO ESTABLISH A UNIVERSITY IN THE EASTERN ARCTIC
The government recognizes the need for additional education opportunities in the Arctic
and notes that this work has already begun in these areas. This recommendation aligns
well with the 1st goal of the
Framework: “Canadian Arctic and
northern Indigenous
Peoples are resilient and
healthy.”
The Government has begun the work required to implement this through the launching,
by CIRNAC in October 2020, of a Task Force on Post-Secondary Education in the
North. The mandate of the independent Task Force is to develop recommendations that
will lead to greater post-secondary opportunities in the North and Arctic; to close gaps in
education outcomes; and to provide ongoing learning and skills development
opportunities, including Indigenous-based knowledge and skills. Task Force members
are a diverse representation of Northerners with unique expertise and experiences.
The Government is also providing $26 million over five years to upgrade Yukon
University through the construction of a new science facility. Yukon College became
Yukon University in May 2020; the upgrade of the campus with a science building helps
to facilitate this transition, and puts the education and research needs of Northerners
first. This will help close the gaps in post-secondary education in the north and provide
Northerners with additional skills and knowledge.
Further, the Government is providing $12.97 million dollars over five years to the
Dechinta Centre for Research and Learning. The Centre will help close gaps in post-
secondary education in the north by offering programming that is culturally relevant to
Indigenous People. A not-for-profit organization based out of Yellowknife, it offers a
unique and innovative land-based program and accredited university courses with
particular value given to on-the-land learning, culturally relevant programming and the
ability for students to pursue education in their language of choice.
Finally,
since 2011, CanNor’s
Northern Adult Basic Education Program has expanded
access to targeted training in the territories for working-age Northerners, particularly in
remote communities. Delivered through the territorial colleges and Yukon University,
this education support program is helping Northerners participate more fully in the
labour market.
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10. THAT THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADA, IN PARTNERSHIP WITH INDIGENOUS
AND TERRITORIAL GOVERNMENTS, BUILD UPON AND SUPPORT EXISTING
TERRITORIAL EDUCATION AND LABOUR FORCE STRATEGIES BASED ON
ARCTIC PEOPLES’ PRIORITIES AND NEEDS, TO DECREASE THE RELIANCE ON
SOUTHERN WORKERS
The Government recognizes the need for Northerners to direct the priorities and needs
of northern education and to assume greater self-sufficiency for the northern work force.
This recommendation aligns well with the 1st goal of the Framework:
“Canadian Arctic
and northern Indigenous Peoples are resilient and
healthy.”
In December 2019, a new Directive on Government Contracts, Including Real Property
Leases, in the Nunavut Settlement Area took effect which provides support and
assistance to Inuit firms in order to enable them to better compete for government
contracts, including real property leases. The federal Government expects that this will
increase participation by Inuit firms in business opportunities in Nunavut. This aligns
with Article 24 of the
Nunavut Agreement,
which states that
“The Government
of
Canada and the Territorial Government shall provide reasonable support and
assistance to Inuit firms in accordance with this Article to enable them to compete for
government
contracts.”
This recommendation also implicates the implementation of Article 23 of the
Nunavut
Agreement.
The stated objective of Article 23 of the Nunavut Agreement is to increase
Inuit participation in government employment to a representative level. The new
Directive on Government Contracts will contribute to the government's obligation under
Article 23. Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) is responsible for
developing the Nunavut Inuit Labour Force Analysis (NILFA), which is being used by
government organizations in Nunavut to assist in formulating Inuit employment plans
and pre-employment training plans. A revised NILFA was due in 2020, as an obligation
of the Government under the 2015 Settlement Agreement.
In 2016, Pilimmaksaivik (Federal Centre of Excellence for Inuit Employment in Nunavut)
was created to serve
as the ‘central coordinating office’ for Inuit
employment in
government. As of 2019, Pilimmaksaivik has been permanently established in Nunavut
in the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency, to support the Government
of Canada’s commitments under Article
23 of the
Nunavut Agreement.
As part of
Canada’s obligations under Article
23, Pilimmaksaivik released a whole-of-government
Inuit Employment Plan in 2017 which identifies barriers and commitments to action in
four broad themes: recruitment; selection and assessment; retention; and, supporting
advancement and talent management.
Canada will invest $50 million to fund activities to increase the employment of Nunavut
Inuit in the government of Canada and Nunavut. Through Pilimmaksaivik, federal
investments have centered on the delivery of two programs: the Education Support
Fund which facilitates a partnered approach with federal departments with Article 23
responsibilities in order to support existing Inuit employees in completing post-
UPN, Alm.del - 2021-22 - Bilag 304: Senator Pattersons arktiske rapport
secondary training; and Sivuliqtiunirmut Ilinniarniq (Leadership Training), a program
which encourages the involvement of Inuit Elders and Leaders in learning modules
through dedicated classroom-based training focused on needs identified by participants.
The Government of Canada continues to strategically develop and invest in supports
and training for Inuit employees in government. As the pre-employment training plan is
developed and implemented, it is expected that draws on the $50 million envelope will
increase.
Through Labour Market Development Agreements (LMDA) and the Workforce
Development Agreements (WDA), ESDC provides funding to all provinces and
territories to design and deliver skills and employment programming designed to meet
the local needs and realities of each jurisdiction.
For fiscal year 2020-21, the territories received over $28 million in funding, including the
additional funds provided in response to the pandemic, to support Canadian workers
looking to re-enter the workforce, and in particular those in hard-hit sectors and
disadvantaged groups.
The agreements include provisions for provincial and territorial governments to
undertake annual stakeholder consultations to inform priorities for investments based on
local needs.
11. THAT EMPLOYMENT AND SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT CANADA AND
INNOVATION, SCIENCE AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CANADA: 1)
IMMEDIATELY ADAPT ITS SKILLS AND EMPLOYMENT PROGRAMS TO THE
EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT AND LABOUR FORCE REALITIES OF THE ARCTIC;
2) WITH INDIGENOUS AND TERRITORIAL GOVERNMENTS, USE DATA TO
BETTER TARGET FEDERAL INVESTMENTS IN POST-SECONDARY EDUCATION
AND TRAINING TO ARCTIC PEOPLES’ PRIORITIES AND THE LABOUR MARKET
TO MEET THE NEEDS OF THIS GENERATION OF ARCTIC YOUTH; AND 3) INVEST
IN POST-SECONDARY EDUCATION AND TRAINING IN SUCH AREAS AS
TRADES, ARTS AND CONSERVATION SECTORS, OR OTHER PRIORITIES AS
IDENTIFIED BY NORTHERNERS
This recommendation aligns well with the 1st and 8th goals of the Framework:
“Canadian
Arctic and northern Indigenous Peoples are resilient and
healthy,”
and
“Reconciliation supports self-determination
and nurtures mutually respectful
relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous
Peoples”.
For example, based on 2019 engagement with Indigenous and northern youth on
barriers to employment,
Natural Resources Canada’s Skills & Training Internship
Program (STIP - funded through the ESDC-led Youth Employment and Skills Strategy)
removed the program’s
post-secondary eligibility requirement and added training as an
eligible expense. These changes extended the reach of the program and removed
UPN, Alm.del - 2021-22 - Bilag 304: Senator Pattersons arktiske rapport
barriers for Indigenous and northern youth, as well as for employers wanting to hire
them.
ESDC’s Indigenous
Skills and Employment (ISET) program, funded at $2 billion over 5
years and $408.2 million ongoing, also aims to reduce employment and skills gaps
between the Indigenous and non-Indigenous population. Announced in 2018, the
program enhances the capacity of Indigenous organizations and structures to customize
culturally-appropriate services which support First Nations, Inuit, and Metis people in
achieving their employment goals throughout the employment continuum. This
distinctions-based approach, with additional funding and enhanced administrative
flexibilities, enables Indigenous organizations to design and deliver labour market
strategies that recognize and respond to the unique needs of their members.
ESDC’s
Skills and Partnership Fund (SPF), launched in 2010 and funded at $50 million
per year on an ongoing basis, is a strategic partnership and project-based fund focused
on training Indigenous Peoples for specific, higher skilled jobs that align with emerging
labour market needs and government priorities. The SPF supports collaboration
between Indigenous organizations and employers to respond to changes at the local,
regional and national level. To date, ESDC has funded five projects, providing a total of
$24.8 million to Inuit organizations.
The Government of Canada also recognizes that training of emerging artists and
cultural leaders is essential for the development and ongoing stability of the arts sector.
The Senate Committee’s report notes the importance of art, traditional games, stories,
song, and dance in the Arctic and northern regions for strengthening language and
building healthy communities. This is especially relevant in remote and underserved
regions in the Arctic.
The Canada Arts Training Fund considers the needs of underserved and emerging
training organizations, and has the provision to raise the limit of its contribution to 80%
of eligible expenses for Indigenous and racialized arts training organizations. In Iqaluit,
the Qaggiavuut! Nunavut Performing Arts Centre received $100,000 in 2020-21 through
the Canada Arts Training Fund for the Qaggiq School of Performing Arts, the only Inuit-
focussed arts training organization in Canada. The Government is committed to
identifying and addressing barriers in the Canada Arts Training Fund to ensure access
to the program.
Finally, CanNor has used grants and contributions programs to enhance skills
development infrastructure in the North on a project-by-project basis. For example, the
agency is investing nearly $800,000 towards a three-year project to renovate a
commercial space into a collaborative space, thereby supporting skills development, job
creation, and innovative new businesses in Yellowknife.
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CULTURE AS A PATHWAY TO STRONG AND HEALTHY COMMUNITIES
12. THAT THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADA, WITH INDIGENOUS, TERRITORIAL
AND LOCAL GOVERNMENTS, TAKE IMMEDIATE MEASURES TO ADDRESS THE
SOCIAL DETERMINANTS OF HEALTH THAT TAKES INTO ACCOUNT
INDIGENOUS NORMS, VALUES AND LANGUAGES IN THE ARCTIC AND
NORTHERN REGIONS WITH SPECIFIC INVESTMENTS, GOALS AND
MEASURABLE OUTCOMES REPORTED ANNUALLY TO BOTH HOUSES OF
PARLIAMENT
The Government of Canada continues to work with partners at both the national and
regional levels to implement the Framework, which provides a comprehensive roadmap
for addressing gaps in areas which include employment, community infrastructure,
health, and education. The Government’s
work to address the social determinants of
health is informed through investment, extensive relationship building and co-decision-
making, following the lead of Indigenous and territorial partners.
ISC continues to strengthen its working relationships with Métis, First Nations, Inuit, and
territorial government partners based on an approach of mutual respect and enhanced
collaboration. Existing bilateral and trilateral tables present an opportunity to engage
partners on issues relating to community-based health programming, including the
social determinants of health.
For instance, ISC works in close partnership with Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami at the national
level and with Inuit regional land claims organizations to increase access to health
services and to improve health outcomes. As part of these efforts, the department has
committed to an Inuit Health Approach which states that it will "work with Inuit, territorial
and provincial governments, and other federal partners to develop an approach to Inuit
health that informs planning." Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami also participates on committees
and working groups to collaborate on areas of mutual interest and advance Inuit health
priorities.
These relationships have supported meaningful changes in Indigenous communities in
terms of levels of access to services, number of community-based workers,
partnerships with provincial and territorial health systems, and better linkages with the
Indigenous social determinants of health.
For instance, in recent years, the Government of Canada has provided funding to
eliminate tuberculosis in Inuit Nunangat; improve housing conditions and infrastructure;
expand access to mental health professionals, including access to traditional healers;
and support the implementation of the National Inuit Suicide Prevention Strategy, which
was developed by and for Inuit. Additionally, Indigenous Services Canada (ISC), in
partnership with the Government of Nunavut and Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated, is
supporting the construction of a new Nunavut Recovery Centre, which will provide a
range of treatment and healing interventions that will address both addictions and
trauma, founded on Inuit cultural practices and values.
UPN, Alm.del - 2021-22 - Bilag 304: Senator Pattersons arktiske rapport
Socio-economic
outcomes are addressed in ISC’s
Annual Report to Parliament 2020.
Specifically, the departmental annual report provides a broad overview of the
socioeconomic gaps between First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples and the non-
Indigenous population of Canada. It focuses on the steps that ISC has taken over the
past five years to address socioeconomic gaps, and highlights specific activities and
initiatives undertaken to ensure that Indigenous Peoples achieve substantive equality
and outcomes.
ISC has regular bilateral meetings with territorial governments, and trilateral partnership
tables are in place in Nunavut and Yukon. The Government of Canada has provided
significant health and social support to northern communities, including funding for the
three territorial governments to support their preparedness and response to COVID-19.
The Federal Government has also provided support to northern air carriers, non-
repayable support for territorial businesses and increased support to Nutrition North
Canada (NNC) to help families access nutrition and hygiene products.
Indigenous Northerners are also now benefiting from the Harvesters Support Grant
(HSG), which supports harvesters and communities in reducing the financial burden
associated with traditional hunting and harvesting via a community grant. This grant
supports the complete range of harvesting activities and traditions, from community
decision making to ceremony and celebration of the harvest. The HSG was developed
in 2019–20 by NNC in direct collaboration with Indigenous partners, including Inuit
Tapiriit Kanatami. In 2021–22, CIRNAC will continue taking action to address the high
cost of food in isolated Northern communities and to support made-in-the-North
solutions, including NNC work with Indigenous and community partners to further
improve the HSG program. A key engagement activity with Indigenous partners will be
the co-development of program performance indicators that are meaningful for the
communities served by the program.
The Standing Committee on Indigenous and Northern Affairs is currently undertaking a
special study on Food Security in Northern Communities. Witnesses from Inuit Tapiriit
Kanatami, Makivik Corporation, Nunatsiavut Government, and Nunavut Tunngavik
Incorporated have stated that poverty is the main driver of food insecurity in Inuit
Nunangat. The COVID-19 pandemic has helped to shed light on socio-economic
inequities and infrastructure gaps that remote communities continue to face. The
outcomes of this study will provide vital information about the complexities of the social
determinants of health and may demonstrate how infrastructure will be key to
addressing many of these gaps.
CanNor’s Northern Isolated
Community Initiative supports local, community-led projects
that address food security concerns by reducing dependence on the southern food
industry and associated costs (e.g. transportation and storage) for isolated communities
in the territories. This initiative supports investments in northern small- and medium-
UPN, Alm.del - 2021-22 - Bilag 304: Senator Pattersons arktiske rapport
sized enterprises, territorial governments, and community organizations pursuing food
security-related projects.
ISC supports the Inuit-specific Child First Initiative, which ensures that Inuit children
have access to needed health, social and education products, services and supports.
Between April 1, 2019 and November 30, 2020, more than 25,000 products, services
and supports were approved under this initiative.
In the September 23, 2020 Speech from the Throne, the Government of Canada
committed to expedite work to co-develop distinctions-based Indigenous health
legislation with First Nations, Inuit and the Métis Nation. This represents a unique
opportunity to ensure that all Indigenous Peoples have access to high-quality and
culturally relevant health care services. The Government is committed to co-developing
Indigenous health legislation with First Nations, Inuit and Métis that responds to the
realities of Indigenous communities and increases their control over service
development and delivery.
Many of the social, economic and environmental factors that determine individual and
population health are outlined in other recommendation responses in this report. Actions
to address these recommendations will impact the social determinants of health in
Arctic and Northern regions by improving health, well-being, living conditions, and
access to opportunities. Direct and indirect improvements to health can be achieved, for
example, through action to address determinants such as governance (recommendation
response 1), built environment (response 5), climate change (responses 5, 6, 16),
housing (response 6), access to telecommunications (response 7), education and skills
training (responses 9-11), and culture (responses 13-15), among others.
13. THAT CANADIAN HERITAGE INCREASE ITS INVESTMENTS IN THE
NORTHERN ABORIGINAL BROADCASTING PROGRAM AND EXTEND MULTI-
YEAR, FLEXIBLE FUNDING SPECIFIC TO ARCTIC RECIPIENTS SO THEY CAN
PRODUCE CONTENT IN THE INDIGENOUS LANGUAGE OF THEIR CHOICE
This recommendation aligns well with the 8th goal of the Framework:
“Reconciliation
supports self-determination and nurtures mutually respectful relationships between
Indigenous and non-Indigenous
Peoples.” and particularly, with the subsequent
objective to “Reclaim, revitalize, maintain and strengthen the cultures
of Arctic and
Northern Indigenous Peoples, including their languages and knowledge
systems.”
Through the Indigenous Languages and Cultures Program, Canadian Heritage currently
has an existing funding envelope for the Northern Aboriginal Broadcasting (NAB)
component. Progress is being made on the provision of multi-year funding to recipients:
an approach is being piloted in the current funding intake to provide funding over two
fiscal years to successful recipients in order to provide stability and to reduce the
administrative burden. In addition, the Government is developing a strategy to support
Indigenous languages and culture following the
Indigenous Languages Act
receiving
Royal Assent. Within the implementation of the
Act,
the NAB may be looked to as a
UPN, Alm.del - 2021-22 - Bilag 304: Senator Pattersons arktiske rapport
potential funding mechanism to support this strategy.
14. THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADA, IN CLOSE COLLABORATION WITH LOCAL,
INDIGENOUS AND TERRITORIAL GOVERNMENTS, SUPPORT THE
DEVELOPMENT OF MULTI-USE COMMUNITY CENTRES FOR THE PRACTICE OF
ARTS, CULTURE AND LANGUAGE
This recommendation aligns well with the 1st, 2nd, and 8th goals of the Framework:
“Canadian Arctic and northern Indigenous Peoples are resilient and healthy,”
“Strengthened
infrastructure that closes gaps with other
regions of Canada,”
and
““Reconciliation supports self-determination
and nurtures mutually respectful
relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous
Peoples.”
The Government of Canada recognizes the important role that multi-use community
centres play as inclusive spaces that address community needs related to the arts,
culture and language, including those of Indigenous communities. The Senate
Committee report outlines ways in which Arctic communities can benefit from multi-use
cultural hubs and infrastructure as important places for learning, creating and healing,
and on how such infrastructure development in the region is lacking.
The Government welcomes this recommendation to work closely with local, Indigenous
and territorial governments to support the development of multi-use community centres,
and of cultural spaces, more generally. The Canada Cultural Spaces Fund provided, for
example, $562,666 in funding in 2019-20 to the Town of Inuvik, a remote Arctic
community with a population of 3,500 people, for upgrades to the outdoor performance
space in Chief Jim Koe Park for festivals, cultural events and celebrations. In additional
to direct funding for arts organizations, eligible recipients include Indigenous
governments and their agencies, in order to further ensure equitable access to this
program. The program will continue to work with Arctic communities to better
understand the needs and potential impacts from these infrastructure investments.
To help create a diversified, sustainable, and dynamic economy across the territories
that supports the prosperity of all Northerners, including Indigenous People and their
communities, CanNor continues to make investments in foundational economic
infrastructure, including the economic development components of multi-use community
centres. For example, the agency recently supported the expansion of the Nattilik
Heritage Centre in Gjoa Haven, to capitalize on the Parks Canada commitment to
develop the Franklin Interpretative space and visitor's centre, following the
Erebus
and
Terror
discoveries in 2014 and 2016.
15. THAT THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADA AND THE CANADA COUNCIL FOR
THE ARTS WORK WITH INDIGENOUS AND ARCTIC ARTS ORGANIZATIONS, TO
PROVIDE LOCAL OUTREACH TO ARCTIC AND NORTHERN ARTISTS, INCLUDING
SPECIFIC SUPPORTS TO EMERGING ARTISTS IN SUCH AREAS AS BUILDING
CAPACITY TO APPLY FOR GRANTS AND TO EXHIBIT THEIR WORK
UPN, Alm.del - 2021-22 - Bilag 304: Senator Pattersons arktiske rapport
This recommendation aligns well with the 3rd and 8th goal of the Framework,
“Strong,
sustainable, diversified and inclusive local and regional
economies,”
and
“Reconciliation
supports self-determination and nurtures mutually respectful relationships between
Indigenous and non-Indigenous
Peoples.”
The government is building on its arts and culture investments. For example, in the
Northwest Territories, $14.5 million was allocated from 2016 to 2021 through the
Canada Arts Presentation Fund, Canada Cultural Spaces Fund, Canada Arts Training
Fund and the Canada Cultural Investment Fund.
The Canada Council for the Arts is also a member of the international advisory board of
the Arctic Arts Summit, which aims to support circumpolar collaboration in arts and
culture. Through recent Summits, the Council, the Department of Canadian Heritage,
and Global Affairs Canada have worked together to demonstrate
Canada’s commitment
to the Arctic and its Indigenous Peoples and cultures, and to engage with circumpolar
countries on cultural policy. The Council will host the next Arctic Arts Summit in 2022, in
partnership with the Government of the Yukon.
The Canada Council for the Arts is now preparing its strategic plan for the period 2021 -
26. The Council made a concerted effort to include Northern stakeholders in its public
engagement sessions for the plan, including a live online dialogue session dedicated to
territorial stakeholders, and a meeting with Indigenous stakeholders from the North
organized by the
Council’s
Indigenous-led program, Creating, Knowing, Sharing: the
Arts and Cultures of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples. Feedback from these
sessions will be taken into account in the new strategic plan. The Canada Council for
the Arts welcomes this recommendation to work with Northern and Arctic arts
organizations and artists.
SCIENCE, INDIGENOUS KNOWLEDGE AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION
16. THAT THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADA COLLABORATE WITH TERRITORIAL
GOVERNMENTS, ARCTIC INDIGENOUS GOVERNING BODIES, ACADEMIC
INSTITUTIONS AND INDUSTRY TO GROW THE SCIENTIFIC CAPACITY OF
NORTHERN AGENCIES AND PEOPLES RESPONSIBLE FOR DEVISING
ADAPTATION EFFORTS TO CLIMATE CHANGE
This recommendation is well-aligned with the fifth goal of the Framework,
“Canadian
Arctic and northern Ecosystems are resilient and
healthy”.
As mentioned
in Canada’s previous
climate action plan, the
Pan-Canadian Framework
on Clean Growth and Climate Change,
the Arctic and north is experiencing climate
change at almost twice the rate of southern Canada and the impacts are felt much more
keenly. In this light, the Government recognizes the significance of, and is committed to
strengthen, collaboration with Indigenous Peoples, investment in northern and
Indigenous capacity as it relates to climate change, and use of Indigenous Knowledge
UPN, Alm.del - 2021-22 - Bilag 304: Senator Pattersons arktiske rapport
to understand both climate impacts and adaptation measures, as demonstrated through
the following examples.
As part of the Government
of Canada’s updated climate plan,
A Healthy Environment
and a Healthy Economy,
the Government is committed to building Indigenous climate
leadership, including supporting Indigenous approaches and ways of doing, and
acknowledging and implementing Indigenous knowledge systems as an equal part in
devising climate change solutions. This work will be facilitated in part through the
development of a
National Adaptation Strategy,
through which the Government will work
with provincial, territorial and municipal governments, Indigenous Peoples, and other
key partners to establish a shared vision for climate resiliency across Canada, identify
key priorities for increased collaboration, and establish a framework for measuring
national progress.
As noted in the responses to Recommendations 5 and 6, through investments made in
the 2016 and 2017 federal budgets, CIRNAC’s Climate Change Preparedness in the
North program received over $77 million over 11 years to strengthen climate change
adaptation in the North. The initiative aims to increase the resiliency of northern and
Indigenous communities and governments to climate change, including supporting
climate-related capacity building and intergenerational knowledge transfer.
Under the Northern Contaminants Program, led by CIRNAC in partnership with ECCC
and Health Canada, Indigenous engagement and capacity building is part of every
funded project. For example, the Inuit Field Training Program encourage Inuit youth with
an interest in research to pursue science-based careers; an ECCC Inuit Hiring plan
identifies educational support and career progression options that will support future
science capacity in the North; training and capacity building is built into partnerships
such as the Sahtu-funded Indigenous Guardians programs; and ECCC has made
efforts to include Indigenous knowledge in research by collaborating on research
programs with Indigenous communities/researchers as equal partners and co-leads in
the research process.
To support implementation of the
National Inuit Climate Change Strategy,
the
Government of Canada provided $1 million to Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami in June 2019. This
included support for advancing Inuit capacity and knowledge in climate decision-
making, and for improving access to climate data to improve local and regional climate
adaptation.
Polar Knowledge Canada (POLAR) is working to ensure that Northerners and
Indigenous Peoples have the tools and resources to participate in all aspects of the
research process. To further this goal, the newly-appointed POLAR president will reside
in Cambridge Bay to help foster relationships with Nunavummiut. POLAR is also
supporting programs such as the Nunavut Arctic College and Ikaarvik, which provide
training and educational opportunities relating to research and Indigenous knowledge;
enhancing northern and Indigenous access to research funding and involvement in
research projects by requiring a partnership with a northern-based or Indigenous
UPN, Alm.del - 2021-22 - Bilag 304: Senator Pattersons arktiske rapport
organization; supporting early career researchers through the POLAR Northern
Resident Scholarships and POLAR Northern Resident Awards; and supporting
community-led research, monitoring and conservation efforts.
Transport Canada (TC) has funded research and collaborative activities to increase
capacity to adapt northern transportation systems to climate change. Since 2011, under
the Northern Transportation Adaptation Initiative, TC has emphasized interdisciplinary
collaboration among those responsible for key northern transportation assets and
operations, including governments, academia and industry.
In the context of climate change, it is essential for governments and communities to
make informed decisions on land use and resource management in the North. Through
the Natural Resources Canada-led Canadian Minerals and Metals Plan (CMMP), the
federal, provincial and territorial governments are collaborating with Arctic Indigenous
governing bodies, academic institutions and industry to plan for and adopt adaptation
measures. Under the CMMP, the Pan-Canadian Geoscience Strategy is being
developed to increase the accessibility of public geoscience, and to examine ways to
enhance collaboration on geoscience innovation.
The Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO), through the Coastal Environmental
Baseline Program, under the Oceans Protection Plan, is working with partners to collect
biological and oceanographic data to characterize the state of key coastal ecosystems
in Nunavut. DFO Science is working closely with Indigenous and coastal communities
and research partners on this program, and the valuable expertise which communities
are providing will inform decisions that could impact sensitive coastal environments and
improve understanding of the effects of shipping and development on the marine
environment.
DFO’s Ocean and Freshwater Science
Contribution is providing financial
assistance to organizations wishing to conduct scientific research and science-related
activities aligned with departmental program areas.
ECCC has also long supported academic-led research in the north, including at the
PEARL Ridge Lab in Eureka, which advances atmospheric and climate science in the
Arctic. Increased knowledge of Arctic atmospheric change contributes to informed
policies, regulations and services, and increased capacity to predict and adapt to
climate change.
ECCC’s
National Atmospheric Pollutants Surveillance program has monitoring sites in
all three territories, allowing ECCC to collaborate with provinces and territories to
maintain and improve their air quality monitoring capabilities. Since 2019, ECCC has
been providing additional assistance to help Nunavut establish more robust air quality
monitoring capacity for some Iqaluit neighborhoods.
The Canadian Centre for Climate Services (CCCS) was created in 2018 to support the
implementation of the
Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change.
The CCCS addresses knowledge barriers to understanding climate impacts and risks by
enhancing access to information about the past and future climate, and by providing
training and support. The CCCS takes a regionally coordinated approach to delivering
UPN, Alm.del - 2021-22 - Bilag 304: Senator Pattersons arktiske rapport
climate services to respond to local needs. Where regional climate organizations do not
already exist, CCCS officials support provinces and territories to foster the
establishment of such organizations.
The CCCS has worked closely over the last 18 months with territorial Governments to
inform the development of a shared vision and an organizational model for a proposed
northern climate expert organization to aid in climate service delivery across the region.
The organization would enhance the access to and use of northern climate information
to understand the impacts of climate change, develop tools, and provide support to
Northerners as they build resilience.
In summary, through the funding, programs and initiatives and collaborations outlined
above, the Government of Canada is committed to working with and for Northerners
and Indigenous Peoples to address the effects of climate change.
17. THAT THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADA CREATE MECHANISMS FOR ARCTIC
INDIGENOUS
REPRESENTATIONAL ORGANIZATION’S
INPUT INTO FEDERAL
RESEARCH GOVERNANCE BODIES, AND PARTNER WITH ARCTIC INDIGENOUS
GOVERNING BODIES AND COMMUNITIES IN SETTING ARCTIC RESEARCH
PRIORITIES AS IT RELATES TO FUNDING REQUIREMENTS
This recommendation is well aligned with the 4th goal of the Framework:
“Knowledge
and understanding guides decision
making.”
Many federal programs already work to incorporate input from Indigenous organizations
to set their research priorities. For example, the Northern Contaminants Program has
funded research on contaminants in the North based on a multi-partner approach,
including federal departments (CIRNAC, ECCC, Health Canada, and DFO), territorial,
regional and Indigenous organizations. This model has been identified as a best-
practice for inclusion of Arctic and Indigenous perspectives in science and research.
Further, POLAR is working directly with northern and Indigenous partners to establish
new mechanisms for the governance and delivery of northern research programming.
There is an ongoing commitment to co-develop an Implementation
Plan for POLAR’s
2020-2025 Science and Technology Framework with northern and Indigenous partners.
These efforts are key to developing shared objectives and delivering research
programming that meets the needs of northern and Indigenous organizations and the
communities they serve, and they are also establishing a distinctions-based approach to
multi-stakeholder review committee procedures. This ensures that the priorities of
northern and indigenous leaders from the region in which research is being conducted
help to determine which projects are relevant and receive funding.
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18. THAT THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADA, WITH INDIGENOUS GOVERNING
BODIES AND ORGANIZATIONS, DEVELOP A GOVERNMENT-WIDE POLICY TO
DIRECT HOW INDIGENOUS KNOWLEDGE AND SCIENCE CAN BE BETTER
SYNERGIZED TO REFLECT A HOLISTIC APPROACH, INCLUDING THE
RECOGNITION OF INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS OF INDIGENOUS
KNOWLEDGE HOLDERS
This recommendation aligns well as part of Goal 4 of the Framework: “Knowledge and
understanding guides decision-making.”
It also aligns well with its subsequent objective
to:
“Create and store knowledge in a manner consistent with the self-determination
of
Indigenous Peoples, balancing ethics, accessibility and
culture.”
The synergy of Indigenous knowledge and science requires a flexible approach to meet
the various needs of our partners and to coordinate the priorities and mandates of
various government departments.
Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) is leading an Interdepartmental Indigenous
Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (I-STEM) Cluster to inform and
enhance departmental policies, programs, activities and recruitment related to STEM
disciplines in order to accelerate the advancement of Indigenous aspirations and
innovation in agriculture and natural resource stewardship. The I-STEM Cluster
operates as an interdepartmental team and which undertakes collaborative work across
the following federal departments and agencies:
Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada
Canadian Space Agency
Department of Fisheries and Oceans
Environment and Climate Change Canada
Knowledge Circle for Indigenous Inclusion, Canadian Heritage
Natural Resources Canada
National Research Council
Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada
Office of the Chief Science Advisor, Innovation, Science and Economic
Development Canada
Parks Canada
Public Services and Procurement Canada
Through both this intra-governmental cooperation and co-development with Indigenous
partners, the I-STEM Cluster helps synergize Indigenous knowledge and science. It will
use co-development approaches to optimize the impact of federal intramural science in
supporting Indigenous innovation in agriculture and natural resource stewardship; build
inter-cultural competency of federal scientists and managers; bridge Indigenous and
western science knowledge systems; facilitate access to programs that can fund
Indigenous-led research; increase Indigenous governance and capacity in research;
provide guidance to federal scientists on the protection of Indigenous knowledge, data
sovereignty, intellectual property rights and the ethical conduct of research with
UPN, Alm.del - 2021-22 - Bilag 304: Senator Pattersons arktiske rapport
Indigenous partners; attract more Indigenous youth into university STEM programs and
increase recruitment of Indigenous STEM students and professionals in the public
service; and support retention and career advancement of existing Indigenous STEM
employees.
AAFC’s Science and Technology
Branch (STB) also established a Senior Indigenous
Science Liaison Officer position in 2017 to lead the Indigenous Science Liaison Office
(ISLO), and support AAFC researchers in building relationships, engaging, and
ultimately co-developing research projects with Indigenous partners. ISLO does this by
providing science-specific Indigenous cultural literacy and intercultural competency
training to STB staff, researchers, and management; liaising between researchers and
potential Indigenous partners; and providing input in science policy and programming to
facilitate Indigenous research partnerships.
AAFC-STB also included Indigenous and Northern agriculture as priorities in its 2018
and 2020 Call for Proposals, encouraging AAFC researchers to submit research
proposals that would contribute to understanding of Indigenous food systems and were
co-developed with Indigenous research partners. STB also launched, in 2019, a new,
flexible internal funding mechanism for AAFC researchers, the Indigenous Agricultural
Science Partnerships Program, to support relationship-building activities with potential
Indigenous partners in the context of science.
ECCC is developing an Indigenous Knowledge Framework (IKF) to help guide the
department’s application and protection of Indigenous
knowledge and ongoing
engagement with Indigenous knowledge holders. The IKF will serve as an internal
guidance document for ECCC officials on how to consider, apply and protect Indigenous
knowledge in their activities and decisions.
Finally,
the Department of Fisheries and Oceans’ (DFO) Canadian Science Advisory
Secretariat promotes the inclusion of Indigenous knowledge holders, as appropriate, in
the peer-review process of DFO science which is used to advise departmental decision-
making. The incorporation of Indigenous traditional ecological knowledge and local use
information is required as part of the assessment stage of the Marine Protected Area
(MPA) establishment process in the Arctic, and that this holistic approach continues
through MPA management as well.
19. THAT THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADA: 1) SUPPORT COMMUNITY-DRIVEN
ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION EFFORTS; 2) RECOGNIZE THE CENTRAL
ROLE OF CO-MANAGEMENT BODIES IN THE ARCTIC WHEN PROPOSING
ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION INITIATIVES; AND 3) ENSURE
COLLABORATIVE GOVERNANCE IN ENVIRONMENTAL DECISION-MAKING
This recommendation aligns well with the 5th goal of the
Framework: “Canadian
Arctic
and northern ecosystems are healthy and resilient.” One of the objectives of this goal is
to
“Partner
with territories, provinces and Indigenous Peoples to recognize, manage and
conserve culturally and environmentally significant
areas.”
UPN, Alm.del - 2021-22 - Bilag 304: Senator Pattersons arktiske rapport
ECCC research and initiatives supporting this recommendation include community-
based research to help inform conservation efforts, like the Snow Goose project. ECCC
works extensively with partner Arctic communities on many levels, as Indigenous
knowledge is equally as important as scientific knowledge in understanding the evolving
factors (e.g. climate change) that influence the health impacts on wildlife, biota and the
northern peoples and communities. Indigenous-scientific knowledge integration also
includes partnership in decision-making processes.
ECCC is a leader in actively implementing this recommendation through its indigenous-
focused approaches to protected areas monitoring and management. For example,
implementing the
Inuit Impact and Benefit Agreement
for Migratory Bird Sanctuaries
and National Wildlife Areas in the Nunavut Settlement Area, implementing the
Edehzhie
Establishment Agreement
(Indigenous Protected and Conserved Area), supporting the
Inuvialuit Joint Secretariat to collaborate on a new approach to co-manage Migratory
Bird Sanctuaries in the Inuvialuit Settlement Region, and supporting planning and
establishment of community-driven conservation efforts through the Canada Nature
Fund.
Transport Canada (TC) supports lead agencies in furthering environmental conservation
efforts and participates in whole-of-government initiatives as appropriate. It also
participates in co-management bodies in the Arctic to facilitate any transportation-
related concerns relating to environmental conservation, in support of the lead agency,
and supports the whole of government approach to environmental assessment, which
can include conservation efforts.
Natural resource development often has a significant presence in communities and
regions, and has the potential to drive community development and deliver socio-
economic benefits. Communities expect that these projects are carried out responsibly
and sustainably. When engaged by industry at early stages of natural resource
development, communities can contribute to successful projects by providing local
knowledge and mitigating social and environmental impacts. Under the Canadian
Minerals and Metals Plan, federal and provincial governments, industry, Indigenous
Peoples and other stakeholders are working to advance actions that will increase
community capacity, build public trust and enable active participation of communities in
mining projects.
The Government of Canada has and continues to demonstrate support for Indigenous
and community-driven conservation initiatives in the Arctic. In September 2017, the
Government of Canada and the Nunatsiavut Government signed a Statement of Intent
concerning a Labrador Inuit and Government of Canada collaboration to advance
oceans management in the Labrador Sea. In April 2019, the Prime Minister of Canada,
along with Inuit leaders of the Inuit Crown Partnership Committee, issued a Joint
Leaders Statement committing to collaboration with the Governments of Denmark and
Kalaalliit Nunaat (Greenland) to develop a path forward for advancing the sustainable
marine management and environmental protection of the Pikialasorsuaq region (North
Water Polynya).
UPN, Alm.del - 2021-22 - Bilag 304: Senator Pattersons arktiske rapport
In August 2019, Prime Minister Trudeau, together with Inuit and northern leaders,
announced the establishment of the Tallurutiup Imanga National Marine Conservation
Area and the Tuvaijuittuq
Marine Protected Area in Canada’s High Arctic. In
establishing these marine protected areas, the Government of Canada recognized and
sought the prior approval of the Nunavut Wildlife Management Board, as obligated
within the Nunavut Agreement. In October 2020, the Prime Minister won the National
Geographic Planetary Leadership Award for these successful achievements.
Building on these successes, the Government of Canada will continue to collaborate
with Inuit organizations, northern governments and Arctic communities to advance
marine conservation and marine spatial planning initiatives.
20. THAT THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADA RECOGNIZE SOCIO-ECONOMIC AND
CULTURAL EQUITY OPPORTUNITIES IN ARCTIC ENVIRONMENTAL
CONSERVATION AND INVEST IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF INFRASTRUCTURE
AND INDIGENOUS ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP INITIATIVES THAT
SUPPORT A CONSERVATION ECONOMY
This recommendation aligns well with the 5th goal of the
Framework: “Canadian Arctic
and northern ecosystems are healthy and
resilient,” including its objective to: “Partner
with territories, provinces and Indigenous Peoples to recognize, manage and conserve
culturally and environmentally significant
areas.”
The
Navigation Protection Program (NPP), led by TC, helps keep Canada’s navigable
waters open for transport and recreation. In regards to the NPP, procurement done to
address vessels of concern in the Arctic will aim to offer socio-economic opportunities
for Indigenous groups.
Led by Parks Canada, the Tallurutiup Imanga National Marine Conservation Area and
the Tuvaijuittuq Marine
Protected Area in Canada’s were established in August 2019.
These came with significant benefits for Inuit and associated communities. The
Government of Canada and the Qikiqtani Inuit Association successfully negotiated
resources to support Inuit stewardship and hiring programs, fisheries exploration, and
significant resources for the construction of needed infrastructure, including four
harbours.
TC, through its participation in Tallurutiup Imanga National Marine Conservation Area,
supports the Parks Canada Agency in implementing the
Inuit Impact and Benefits
Agreement
by facilitating a role for Inuit Stewards in promoting a safe and secure
marine transportation system within the National Marine Conservation Area. TC is also
funding the construction of two community harbours, in Grise Fiord and Resolute Bay,
which in conjunction with the Inuit Stewardship activities will support a conservation
economy for the impacted communities.
UPN, Alm.del - 2021-22 - Bilag 304: Senator Pattersons arktiske rapport
As part of the 2018 whole-of-government initiative to create the Tallurutiup Imanga
National Marine Conservation Area in the High Arctic, CanNor is providing $10 million
over four years (2019 to 2023) to co-fund the establishment of a Regional Training
Centre in Pond Inlet, owned and operated by the Qikiqtani Inuit Association. The
Regional Training Centre will be used to train Inuit for employment in various economic
sectors including the conservation economy (i.e. Inuit Stewards), science and research,
mining and will provide a location for transfer of traditional knowledge and skills.
ECCC is looking to establish new collaborative monitoring agreements with territorial
governments and other organizations and stakeholders as a means to improve weather
and climate monitoring data in the north. In addition, it is also currently supports
research that helps Inuit communities develop a conservation economy. For example,
eider research in Sanikiluaq, Nunavut, supports a commercial down harvest industry,
while snow goose research is supporting investigations into the feasibility of a
commercial snow goose harvest.
THE ARCTIC IN A GLOBAL CONTEXT
21. THAT THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADA ENHANCE SUPPORT FOR THE
UNIVERSITY OF THE ARCTIC TO PROVIDE ARCTIC YOUTH WITH
INTERNATIONAL LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES AND ENABLE THE NETWORK TO
INCREASE ITS ACTIVITIES IN CANADA AND THROUGHOUT THE CIRCUMPOLAR
ARCTIC
This
recommendation aligns well with the 1st goal of the Framework: “Canadian Arctic
and Northern Indigenous Peoples are resilient and healthy."
The Government of Canada is committed to providing Arctic and Northern youth with
increased opportunities to participate in, and benefit from, Canada's international Arctic
agenda. Increasing
the University of the Arctic’s (UArctic) activities
and programming in
Canada’s
Arctic and North is a commitment within the Framework. Global Affairs
Canada (GAC) has dedicated funds
to increase Canada’s circumpolar engagement
and
cooperation throughout the UArctic network, notably in support of Arctic youth, including
Indigenous youth. Funding will be directed towards projects such as: contributing to
increased Indigenous participation in circumpolar higher education initiatives and
research cooperation; and, strengthening Northern and Indigenous educational
exchanges throughout the circumpolar region.
22. THAT THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADA INCREASE SUPPORT FOR
INTERNATIONAL ARCTIC SCIENTIFIC COOPERATION, WHILE ENSURING THAT
SCIENTIFIC ACTIVITIES CONDUCTED IN THE CANADIAN ARCTIC ARE FOCUSED
ON THE KNOWLEDGE NEEDS OF LOCAL ARCTIC RESIDENTS
The Government recognizes the need for scientific activities to be directed at the
knowledge needs of Northerners. The fourth goal of the Framework,
“Knowledge
and
understanding guides decision
making,”
aligns well with this recommendation.
UPN, Alm.del - 2021-22 - Bilag 304: Senator Pattersons arktiske rapport
International Arctic scientific cooperation helps address knowledge gaps about the
Arctic. The federal government encourages international partners to respectfully include
Indigenous Knowledge in Arctic research, to ensure that Northerners are involved in the
conception, design, and delivery of research that takes place in Canada’s North,
and to
ensure that local residents have access to research results.
Furthermore, the Government of Canada continues to contribute leadership and subject
matter expertise to the scientific work of the six working groups of the Arctic Council and
conducts bilateral outreach and advocacy on Arctic science and research globally
through events, workshops and webinars.
POLAR is involved in supporting international scientific cooperation by facilitating
international polar research collaboration through initiatives such as leveraging the
CHARS Campus for research and engagement; ensuring that international researchers
are prepared to conduct respectful research in Canada’s north by implementing
the
non-marine aspects for the
Agreement on Enhancing International Arctic Science
Cooperation;
and facilitating research partnerships and enabling access to circumpolar
research infrastructure through their role as a participating member in the European
Union’s Horizon 2020 program via
the International Network for Terrestrial Research
and Monitoring in the Arctic.
Through the Arctic Marine Spatial Data Infrastructure Working Group under the Arctic
Regional Hydrographic Commission of the International Hydrographic Organization,
Canada works with other Arctic member states to analyze how authorities and those
with an interest in the Arctic marine domain can contribute and share their spatial
information. International standards are monitored and used to ensure information can
easily be collated with other information to provide a current overall picture for the
region, open and accessible by anyone.
Off the northwest coast of Ellesmere Island, Nunavut, and in partnership with Inuit,
Canadian scientists are working together with the international science community (e.g.,
Germany, United Kingdom and Norway) to better understand the unique ecosystem
associated with the last permanently ice-covered region where old, multi-year ice
persists in the Arctic Ocean. The dramatic decline in sea ice and the change in
composition of the remaining ice will result in fundamental changes to the Arctic
ecosystem and has far-reaching impacts for the greater Arctic Ocean and for Canadian
Arctic communities. This scientific program will inform decisions on marine conservation
measures in the region including for the Tuvaijuittuq Marine Protected Area under the
Oceans Act.
The International Agreement to Prevent Unregulated High Seas Fisheries in the Central
Arctic Ocean
(CAO) provides a framework for parties to cooperate to better understand
the
region’s
ecosystems, and to prevent commercial fishing from occurring until
adequate scientific information is available to inform management measures. The CAO
Agreement is intended to take into account Indigenous and local knowledge and ensure
UPN, Alm.del - 2021-22 - Bilag 304: Senator Pattersons arktiske rapport
the engagement and participation of Arctic Indigenous Peoples throughout the
implementation process.
Canada continues to champion and advocate for the inclusion of Indigenous knowledge
throughout the implementation of the CAO Agreement with the nine other Parties,
including in the context of developing the science program in support of the treaty.
The Canadian Hydrographic Service (CHS) is presently within its fourth year of funding
under the Oceans Protection Plan (OPP), which provided approximately $20 million in
funding for Arctic Hydrography over five years. Additionally, the CHS is the benefici ary
of $0.9 million in ongoing funding for this purpose as a result of the World Class Tanker
Safety System initiative. Funds were used to operationalize the hydrographic sonars
permanently installed on four Canadian Coast Guard (Coast Guard) icebreakers.
ECCC is involved with many international initiatives that facilitate cooperation between
Arctic and non-Arctic states and incorporate Indigenous perspectives. International
meteorological initiatives help improve the accuracy of weather, water, ice, and climate
predictions, contributing to more informed decision-making. In the Arctic, observational
coverage is sparse, and collaboration with other countries and international partners for
global data and research is essential to this work. International initiatives, such as the
World Meteorological Organization-led Arctic Regional Climate Centre and the Arctic
Climate Forum, involve climate stakeholders, including indigenous communities and
partners.
Much of
ECCC’s
support for international activities brings Indigenous perspectives to
international science initiatives, and often leads to circumpolar countries pushing to
include Indigenous knowledge and participation in international science initiatives.
The North Water Polynya, the largest polynya in the Canadian Arctic, is one of the most
biologically productive regions north of the Arctic Circle. In January 2016, the Inuit
Circumpolar Council (ICC) established the Pikialasorsuaq (Greenlandic term for North
Water Polyma) Commission to recommend an Inuit strategy for safeguarding and
monitoring the health of the polynya. The Commission’s
report, "People of the Ice
Bridge: The Future of the Pikialasorsuaq", was released in 2017. The report recognizes
the importance of this area to local Inuit communities: it sustains Inuit with food and
resources, making it invaluable for cultural and spiritual well-being. It recommends
identifying a protected area that includes the polynya and a larger management zone,
moving toward Inuit-led management of the region, and free movement across
Pikialasorsuaq for Inuit people between historically connected communities in Canada
and Greenland.
Advancing reconciliation and pursuing a renewed relationship with Indigenous Peoples
based on the recognition of rights, respect, co-operation, and partnership is a priority for
the Government of Canada. Fisheries and Oceans Canada supports Indigenous
leadership and collaboration on marine conservation initiatives, and Inuit in Canada and
Greenland have begun discussing a path forward. The Government of Canada has also
UPN, Alm.del - 2021-22 - Bilag 304: Senator Pattersons arktiske rapport
begun engaging with key Canadian Inuit
partners in support of the report’s
recommendations for Sarvarjuaq (Canadian Inuit term for the North Water Polynya),
and has initiated discussions with the governments of Greenland and Denmark towards
cooperation around this shared marine area.
23. THAT THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADA ENSURE THE CANADIAN
ARCTIC’S
SECURITY AND SAFETY AND ASSERT AND PROTECT CANADA’S
SOVEREIGNTY IN THE ARCTIC
The government recognizes
the need to ensure the Arctic’s security and safety and
notes that this recommendation aligns well with the Framework’s 7th goal that: “The
Canadian Arctic and North and its people are safe, secure, and well-defended.”
The Framework, through its Safety, Security and Defence Chapter led by the
Department of National Defence, highlights the challenges presented by modern threats
to Canada’s Arctic security and sovereignty, and reinforces commitments made in the
defense policy
Strong, Secure, Engaged.
It further
articulates that Canada’s cooperation
in circumpolar affairs must not result in complacency at a time of increased interest and
competition from Arctic and non-Arctic states in the region.
The
region’s
increasing accessibility presents opportunities for Arctic and non-Arctic
states to pursue economic and military interests that may not align with those of
Canada. Although the immediate threat in Canada’s Arctic is low, the Department of
National Defence and the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) continue to carefully monitor
the changing Arctic security environment
including the military actions of other states
and are focused on exercising and enhancing domain awareness and presence in the
region. Canada’s future
economic and environmental security, as well as the safety and
well-being of its citizens, depend on our ability to keep up with, understand, and
respond quickly to changes occurring in the Arctic.
The Government of Canada has an important footprint in the North. The CAF has a
permanent presence, anchored by Joint Task Force North in Yellowknife. Joint Task
Force North has approximately 300 personnel, with detachments in Whitehorse and
Iqaluit. The CAF is also represented by over 1,800 Canadian Rangers across 60
communities in the North. Joint Task Force North’s mission
is to collaborate with Arctic
partners to enable safety, security, and defence operations while demonstrating
sovereignty in support of broader government
priorities in Canada’s North.
Operation
NANOOK, the
CAF’s signature
Arctic training exercise, is key to the
CAF’s continuing
ability to operate in the harsh Northern environment. In addition, regular cold-weather
exercises are important to demonstrating sovereignty and maintaining the survival skills
necessary to operate in the region.
The Government of Canada recognizes the threats to the Arctic and is, pursuant to the
Minister of National Defence’s mandate letter, exploring options to ensure the continued
safety and security of the region. The CAF anticipates that it may increasingly be tasked
to provide additional sovereignty and security related functions, including intelligence,
UPN, Alm.del - 2021-22 - Bilag 304: Senator Pattersons arktiske rapport
surveillance and reconnaissance activities, search and rescue, and emergency
response capabilities in the Arctic. The challenges presented by modern threats and a
more accessible Arctic, including non-traditional security challenges, will require
collaboration with other government departments, as well as domestic and international
partners.
In
Strong, Secure, Engaged,
the Government committed to enhancing the mobility,
footprint, and reach of the CAF in the North; it also identified a requirement for
enhanced capacity and domain awareness in the Arctic, driven by the changing security
environment, increased regional interest and activity, and the importance of continental
defence. Efforts are also underway to advance work on continental defence and
NORAD modernization.
In parallel, National Defence has also invested $133 million over the last five years in
the All Domain Situational Awareness (ADSA) Science and Technology program to
provide advice on enhanced domain awareness of air, maritime surface, and maritime
subsurface approaches to Canada and North America with a focus on the Arctic. Work
is ongoing to develop options for how future investments in continental defence and
NORAD modernization could help ensure that Canada is able to better detect, deter and
defend against new and emerging threats to and through the Arctic.
Canada’s Arctic sovereignty is long-standing
and well-established, as reflected in
Government of Canada policy statements such as the Framework.
Canada’s
sovereignty is exercised on a continuous basis, through a variety of domestic and
international actions. It is rooted in historic title to the lands and waters of the Canadian
Arctic Archipelago, founded in part on the presence there of Inuit and First Nations
since time immemorial. Ensuring
the security and safety of Canada’s Arctic is a
fundamental aspect of asserting
Canada’s
Arctic sovereignty.
Among the objectives outlined in the Framework, several are focused on security and
safety in the Arctic, including commitments to: strengthen Canada's cooperation and
collaboration with domestic and international partners on safety, security and defence
issues; enhance Canada's military presence; strengthen Canada's domain awareness,
surveillance, and control capabilities; and enforce Canada's legislative and regulatory
frameworks.
In 2020, the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) took possession of the fi rst of six RCN Arctic
Offshore Patrol vessels (AOP), which will conduct armed sea-borne surveillance of
maritime areas under Canadian jurisdiction, enhancing situational awareness and
control in the Arctic. The Coast Guard will receive two AOP vessels tailored to their
specific needs. The Nanisivik Naval Facility and deep water port will offer refueling and
logistics support to Government of Canada Coast Guard and naval vessels in Arctic
waters.
Advancing work on NORAD modernization and broader continental defence, including
collaboration with the United States, will explore new technologies to improve Arctic
UPN, Alm.del - 2021-22 - Bilag 304: Senator Pattersons arktiske rapport
surveillance and control, such as the renewal of the North Warning System to detect,
deter, and if necessary, defend against all-domain threats to Canada and North
America.
Finally, as the Framework makes clear, Northern peoples are at the heart of the
Government’s
safety and security policy in the region, and they continue to be key
guardians of sovereignty in the Arctic. At the community level, over 1,800 Canadian
Rangers operate across 60 patrols based in Northern and Arctic communities. As the
“eyes
and
ears”
of the Canadian military in the Arctic, they provide lightly equipped, self-
sufficient, mobile forces in support of Canadian sovereignty and security in the North.
Rangers perform vital tasks towards ensuring the safety and security of Canadians,
including assisting local authorities in search and rescue, conducting patrols and
training alongside Canadian Armed Forces members, reporting unusual sightings, and
responding to natural disasters and other emergencies, including the COVID -19
pandemic.
The Polar Continental Shelf Program (PCSP), led by Natural Resources Canada,
coordinates field logistics in support of advancing scientific knowledge and management
of Canada's lands and natural resources. As a national service delivery organization,
PCSP coordinates logistics for Canadian government agencies, provincial, territorial
and northern organizations, universities and independent groups conducting research in
Canada's North. Through this work, PCSP contributes to the exercise of Canadian
Arctic sovereignty.
Coast Guard’s
security involvement occurs under its
Oceans Act
mandate to support
other government departments and agencies with maritime resources and expertise.
Coast Guard’s
Arctic presence and ability to actively support security and sovereignty
will only increase as it brings its new icebreakers and Arctic and offshore patrol vessels
into service and continues to enhance its cooperation and interoperability with the Royal
Canadian Navy and other security partners operating in northern and Arctic waters.
Coast Guard has a mandate for search and rescue (SAR) in the Arctic, as well as
environmental response, maritime domain awareness and marine navigation, and
provides fleet resources (icebreakers and crews) in support of the annual Arctic
community re-supply. Coast Guard Auxiliary units across the north have been provided
with training, as well as Indigenous Community SAR boats under the OPP.
The Marine Communications and Traffic Services (MCTS) Iqaluit and MCTS Prescott
stations implement the Northern Canada Vessel Traffic Services Zone Regulations
(NORDREG) on behalf of Transport Canada (TC), ensuring seamless vessel traffic
services and SAR support for Canada’s Arctic. This service provides enhanced
information on vessel transit and is responsible for regulating vessel movements;
identifying and monitoring vessels; and providing navigational information and
assistance to encourage safety, efficient navigation, and environmental protection.
UPN, Alm.del - 2021-22 - Bilag 304: Senator Pattersons arktiske rapport
ECCC conducts leading edge environmental and atmospheric (air quality, climate and
weather) research and monitoring in the Arctic. The objective of this work is to provide
Canadians with authoritative climate, air quality, weather and related information to
make informed decisions about their health and safety, economy and environment.
Canadian society requires reassurance that the Arctic is being protected. The
international visibility of ECCC-owned sites such as the Eureka Weather Station, the
Polar Environment and Atmosphere Research Laboratory (PEARL), and the Dr. Neil
Trivett Global Atmosphere Watch Observatory in Alert, Nunavut, illustrate further
Canada's exercise of its sovereignty in the Arctic, and of Canadian stewardship in the
far North.
The Government of Canada remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of the
Canadian Arctic and to working with the United States on our shared responsibilityfor
the defence of North America.
24. THAT THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADA, ON AN IMMEDIATE BASIS,
ESTABLISH A ROBUST GOVERNANCE REGIME TO REGULATE ACTIVITIES IN
CANADA’S ARCTIC WATERS, INCLUDING SHIPPING CORRIDORS, AND
BONDING AND INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS. SUCH A REGULATORY REGIME
MUST INCLUDE THE ACTIVE INVOLVEMENT AND PARTICIPATION OF ARCTIC
INDIGENOUS GOVERNING BODIES AND COMMUNITIES
Canada has a robust governance regime to regulate activities in its Arctic waterways.
Indeed, Canada’s
Arctic shipping regulatory regime ranks amongst the best in the
world, with stringent pollution prevention measures and safety provisions that reflect
local hazards and associated risks.
Through the
OPP’s
Northern Low-Impact Shipping Corridors Initiative, TC, Coast Guard
and the Canadian Hydrographic Service are engaging with Indigenous partners to
develop a governance framework to implement and manage Northern low-impact
shipping corridors that promote safe shipping while mitigating impacts on the
environment and identifying sensitive geographic areas. It should be noted that the
Northern Low-Impact Shipping Corridors Initiative does not include the development of
a regulatory regime, nor does it address the issues of bonding or insurance.
25. THAT THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADA ENHANCE MARITIME AND AERIAL
SITUATIONAL AWARENESS OF THE CANADIAN ARCTIC, INCLUDING
IMPROVING THE ICEBREAKING CAPACITY OF THE CANADIAN COAST GUARD,
AND EQUIPPING THE CANADIAN
RANGERS’
WITH MARINE CAPABILITIES
To detect and deter new and emerging threats to Canada and North America, and to
build on commitments made in
Strong, Secure, Engaged
and the 2019 Mandate Letter
of the Minister of National Defence, National Defence is exploring options to enhance
continental defence and ensure NORAD is modernized in partnership with the United
UPN, Alm.del - 2021-22 - Bilag 304: Senator Pattersons arktiske rapport
States. This recommendation aligns well with the 7th goal of the Framework:
“The
Canadian Arctic and North and its people are safe, secure and well-defended.”
The OPP is putting into place concrete measures to prevent and to better respond to
marine pollution incidents, to address abandoned, wrecked and hazardous vessels, and
to take action to restore coastal habitats and mitigate the impact of day-to-day vessel
operations on marine mammals. Through the OPP, TC, Coast Guard and other partners
are undertaking a number of actions to improve marine safety and enforce responsible
shipping practices. These contributions
are helping to protect Canada’s waters and
marine environment; restore and protect marine ecosystems and habitats; and improve
collaboration with Indigenous and coastal communities.
Specific OPP measures to help protect Arctic waters, and to allow
Canada’s
territories
to be better equipped to protect their marine environment and coastal communities,
include: Safety Equipment and Basic Marine Infrastructure, the Marine Training
Program, Northern Low Impact Shipping Corridors, and the Iqaluit National Aerial
Surveillance Program Complex.
An interdepartmental senior management oversight committee for the OPP is in place
to: maintain oversight of activities; facilitate coordination amongst departments; and
provide strategic direction on the OPP. The committee is responsible for reviewing the
interdepartmental tracking scheme and overseeing the interdepartmental delivery of the
OPP.
Coast Guard supports maritime and aerial domain awareness in the Arctic, and has a
mandate for search and rescue (SAR), environmental response, and marine navigation
in the Arctic. In
addition, Coast Guard partners with National Defence’s Marine Security
Operations Centre - East on maritime domain awareness for the Arctic. Coast Guard
also provides fleet resources (icebreakers and crews) in support of the annual Arctic
community re-supply, and is expanding its fleet to ensure it has the ships needed to
carry out its mandate.
In 2018, the Government of Canada purchased three medium interim icebreakers to
support icebreaking services and improve the icebreaking capacity of the Coast Guard
in Canadian waters. These icebreakers are the CCGS Captain Molly Kool (delivered in
December 2018); the CCGS Jean Goodwill (delivered in November 2020) and the
CCGS Vincent Massey (to be delivered in 2021). The vessels will also support other
Coast Guard programs, such as SAR and environmental response. The icebreakers are
the first in Canada to be equipped with a removable towing notch. This unique towing
capability allows the ship to safely break ice and tow another vessel at the same time.
Canada is working with the United States on research and development for future
surveillance solutions for a system-of-systems that would replace the North Warning
System, which is expected to reach the end of its operational and functional life
expectancy as early as 2025. However, efforts are being made to sustain the system at
least until new capabilities come online. The Government of Canada has committed to
UPN, Alm.del - 2021-22 - Bilag 304: Senator Pattersons arktiske rapport
the modernization of NORAD and is, through research and development efforts,
exploring innovative solutions to increase multi-domain situational awareness.
National Defence has also invested in the Nanisivik Naval Facility on Northern Baffin
Island, Nunavut. When complete, the facility will serve the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN)
and other government departments, including the Coast Guard, to enhance Arctic
maritime capabilities and situational awareness.
National Defence is also investing in the modernization of the RCN and the
development of new marine capabilities. Key among these new capabilities are six
Harry DeWolf-class
Arctic Offshore Patrol Vessels, which provide armed, sea-borne
surveillance of Canadian Arctic waters. The ice-capable Arctic Offshore Patrol Vessels
will provide greater naval capability in the Arctic, with longer range and more autonomy
than other platforms. They will also have the capacity to launch extensive helicopter
operations and provide support to operations ashore and at sea, as well as significant
storage and transport lift capabilities. The
Harry DeWolf-class
vessels will be affiliated
with regions of Inuit Nunangat. Affiliation between an HMC Ship, its sailors and civilian
communities is a long-standing and honoured naval tradition, with relationships lasting
throughout the service life of the ship.
The Canadian Rangers are an important contributor
to National Defence’s Arctic
situational awareness. However, equipping them with marine capabilities would not be
consistent with the current structure and purpose of the Canadian Rangers. The
Canadian Rangers are a unique sub-component of the Reserve Force and are recruited
as local experts, with no further training required. The Canadian Rangers leverage their
extensive knowledge and understanding of the remote, isolated, coastal and northern
areas of Canada in which they live, and of how to live and survive in, and move across,
their local environments. The Canadian Rangers conduct surveillance and sovereignty
patrols, and ground search and rescue.
While the Canadian Rangers are allocated a minimal amount of paid training time on an
annual basis (up to 12 days) to conduct these activities, the skills required to operate
maritime capabilities are considerably different, and should not be expected of
individuals upon enrollment in the Rangers. The gaps in equipment, training, and, most
importantly, the time that Rangers would have available for such training, are
considerable. The Rangers are not Regular forces whose primary function is full-time
training for military operations. It should also be noted that from a legal perspective, the
Canadian Rangers are prohibited from assisting federal, provincial, territorial or local
police in the discovery, reporting and apprehension of enemy agents, saboteurs,
criminals or terrorists unless placed on active service under Section 31 of the
National
Defence Act.
As we move forward, National Defence will continue to engage our whole-of-
government partners in exploring potential solutions to continental defence challenges
that could contribute
to Canada’s
economic recovery and maximize benefits for all
Canadians.
UPN, Alm.del - 2021-22 - Bilag 304: Senator Pattersons arktiske rapport
26. THAT THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADA PROPOSE THE ESTABLISHMENT OF
A PAN-ARCTIC INFRASTRUCTURE BANK AT THE ARCTIC COUNCIL AND
ENSURE AN IMPROVED INVESTMENT CLIMATE AND TRADE FLOW IN THE
CIRCUMPOLAR ARCTIC REGION
Through the Framework, the Government is committed to strong, sustainable,
diversified and inclusive local and regional economies, but does not at present support
the recommendation to propose the establishment of a Pan-Arctic Infrastructure Bank at
the Arctic Council. Reasons include the fact that the Arctic Council, while an effective
international forum, is not a legal entity with international treaty-making capabilities.
Additionally, it does not have an institutional structure that could support such an
initiative. Canada will, however, explore the connections that the Arctic Council has with
the Arctic Economic Council, to encourage further cooperation between the two bodies
with the goal of supporting infrastructure development in the circumpolar north. The
Arctic Economic Council, to which Canadian businesses are members, undertakes
activities in the following areas: maritime transport; investments and infrastructure;
responsible resource development; connectivity and telecommunications; and,
initiatives to take advantage of the
“blue economy.”
In this regard, the government takes note of the December 2020 release of the
“Arctic
Infrastructure
Inventory” by the Wilson Center’s Polar Institute,
in partnership with the
Arctic Economic Council. It identifies an array of nearly 8,000 planned and completed
infrastructure projects in the Arctic region. The inventory aims to be a tool and resource
to help policymakers, industry leaders, investors, researchers, academics, Indigenous
and community leaders and all other Arctic infrastructure stakeholders. It will
undoubtedly enhance awareness of the Arctic infrastructure landscape and facilitate
greater coordination of projects and proposals.
To help ensure an improved investment climate and trade flow in the circumpolar Arctic
region, the Government of Canada, as part of its Trade Diversification Strategy and
inclusive approach to trade, will use its Trade Commissioner Service to better connect
Arctic and Northern businesses, including Indigenous-led businesses and women
entrepreneurs, with export opportunities provided by free trade agreements; to increase
their awareness of Canadian Trade Commissioner Service resources; and to help them
attract and retain foreign direct investment that increases Canada's competitiveness
and safeguards our national security. In addition, through programs such as the
National Trade Corridors Fund, Canada will prioritize investments that strengthen the
efficiency, resilience and safety of Arctic and Northern transportation infrastructure and
support international trade to and from Canada's Arctic and North.
UPN, Alm.del - 2021-22 - Bilag 304: Senator Pattersons arktiske rapport
27. THAT, TO ENSURE REGIONAL STABILITY AND FACILITATE INFORMATION-
SHARING, THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADA ESTABLISH A FORUM DEDICATED
TO ARCTIC SECURITY ISSUES INVOLVING THE PARTICIPATION OF ALL ARCTIC
STATES
This recommendation aligns well with the 7th goal of the
Framework: “The
Canadian
Arctic and North and its people are safe, secure and well-defended.” Specifically, it
aligns with its associated objective to “Strengthen Canada’s cooperation and
collaboration with domestic and international partners on safety, security and defence
issues.”
Canada recognizes the absence of an international forum dedicated solely to
Arctic security issues, and believes that such a forum could potentially contribute to
greater understanding and help avoid miscommunication.
The circumpolar Arctic has historically been
and continues to be
a region of stability
and peace.
Canada’s overarching
defence policy and the Framework both affirm this
commitment to cooperation with partners in the Arctic, including on Arctic security
issues. Given the harsh environment and the high demands of Arctic operations on
resources and capabilities, cooperation amongst Arctic nations on security and safety in
the circumpolar region is beneficial. Although organizations such as the Arctic Council
and the Arctic Coast Guard Forum explicitly preclude discussion on military security and
defence issues, cooperation on specific safety issues
such as Arctic search and
rescue, marine oil pollution, and emergency preparedness and response -- is helping to
ensure that the opening of the Arctic to increased traffic is done in a safe and secure
manner. The exclusion of military security issues from the Arctic Council is important for
maintaining the Council’s central
role in international Arctic cooperation. Similarly, the
Arctic Coast Guard Forum is an operational-level forum that does not address military
security.
Although Canada does not see an immediate military threat to the Arctic, increased
military exercises, patrols, and operations in the circumpolar Arctic can potentially
heighten the risks of misunderstandings and increased tensions. Canada maintains
strong defence relationships with most Arctic states and supports dialogue amongst all
Arctic nations. Indeed, four of five Arctic coastal states are NATO allies. Among the
eight members of the Arctic Council, five are NATO allies, and Sweden and Finland are
NATO Enhanced Opportunity Partners. Canada hosted the first meeting of Northern
Chiefs of Defence of the eight Arctic states in 2012, to discuss ways in which militaries
can support civilian authorities in the North. However, following Russia’s
illegal
annexation of Crimea in 2014 and its support for separatist rebels in Eastern Ukraine,
these meetings have been halted.
Despite Russia’s destabilizing
behavior in Ukraine
and in other regions and in cyberspace, Canada has continued to engage with Russia in
areas of common interest, including in the Arctic. Russia is an active contributor in
Arctic affairs, including at the Arctic Council, where Russia will hold the Chairmanship
between 2021-2023, and in aforementioned areas such as search and rescue and
maritime safety.
UPN, Alm.del - 2021-22 - Bilag 304: Senator Pattersons arktiske rapport
The establishment of a new forum, or reinvigoration of an existing forum, for security
discussions among all Arctic states would require careful coordination and
consideration, including
with Canada’s international Arctic Allies and partners. Canada’s
participation in any security-related forum would need to take into consideration broader
bilateral and multilateral dynamics, including sanctions regimes and the willingness of
all parties to engage in meaningful dialogue. Canada remains committed to a rules-
based approach to the Arctic and remains open to further dialogue on all aspects of
Arctic governance, including security. The Government of Canada will continue to work
with international allies and partners to ensure the Arctic region remains characterized
by peaceful relations.
28. THAT, TO REINFORCE INTERNATIONAL ARCTIC COOPERATION, THE
GOVERNMENT OF CANADA INCREASE ITS INVOLVEMENT AT THE ARCTIC
COUNCIL AS WELL AS BOLSTER FUNDING FOR INDIGENOUS PERMANENT
PARTICIPANTS OF THE COUNCIL
The International Chapter
of the Framework outlines the government’s commitment to
strengthen
Canada’s
leadership and engagement in the Arctic Council, with the goal of
increasing the impact of its work for Northerners.
The government will prioritize meaningful Canadian participation and contributions to
the work of the Arctic Council's working groups and task forces, with a particular focus
on bolstering the Council's work on the human dimension, including social, health,
economic and cultural issues. This includes investments announced in 2019 of $3.8
million over five years to strengthen
government’s
capacity to contribute to the work of
the Arctic Council's working groups and task forces, and $5 million over 5 years to
establish a Canadian-based
permanent secretariat for the Arctic Council’s Sustainable
Development Working Group. Canada will also continue to advocate for the
modernization of the Arctic Council, notably its ongoing transition from a policy-shaping
to a policy-making body; for improved monitoring and reporting of national
implementation of Arctic Council recommendations and decisions; and for enhanced
strategic communication of the Arctic Council's work at home and abroad. Furthermore,
the government is investing $10 million over 5 years to enhance the capacity of the
Canada-based Indigenous Permanent Participants (Arctic Athabaskan Council,
Gwich’in Council International,
Inuit Circumpolar Council) to engage in Arctic Council
projects.
Further, a Government of Canada representative from Coast Guard will be the Chair of
the Arctic
Council’s
Emergency Prevention, Preparedness and Response working group
starting in 2021.
29. THAT THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADA INCREASE ARCTIC INDIGENOUS
REPRESENTATION AT INTERNATIONAL FORUMS AND TREATY NEGOTIATIONS
RELATED TO THE ARCTIC, INCLUDING THE UNITED NATIONS CONVENTION ON
THE LAW OF THE SEA
UPN, Alm.del - 2021-22 - Bilag 304: Senator Pattersons arktiske rapport
The Framework’s International
Chapter commits Canada to enhancing the
representation and participation of Arctic and Northern Canadians, especially
Indigenous Peoples, in relevant international forums and negotiations. In the Arctic
Council, Canada has seen firsthand how the valuable contributions Indigenous Peoples
and Northerners make by bringing their unique concerns and perspectives to the table
leads to better decision making. For this reason, the government is investing $10 million
over 5 years to enhance the capacity of the three Canada-based Indigenous Permanent
Participants (Arctic Athabaskan Council,
Gwich’in Council
International, Inuit
Circumpolar Council) so that they can keep up with the growing workload of the Arctic
Council and other international forums.
At the same time, the Government of Canada is strengthening existing domestic
engagement mechanisms on Canada's international Arctic policy
such as the Arctic
Cooperation Advisory Committee
to provide more meaningful opportunities for
territorial, provincial and Indigenous officials to influence Canada’s
international
Arctic
policy and programming. Where appropriate, the government is also providing more
opportunities for territorial, provincial and Indigenous partners to support or join the
Canadian delegation at international Arctic meetings, key multi-stakeholder events such
as Arctic Circle, and treaty negotiations such as the Arctic Fisheries Agreement.
In terms of Indigenous engagement in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the
Sea (UNCLOS) process, the Government of Canada has engaged northern Indigenous
groups during the
preparation of Canada’s submission on the
outer limits of its Arctic
Ocean continental shelf (now submitted). Canada will continue to ensure that the rights
of Indigenous Peoples are respected when resolving boundary disputes, continental
shelf overlaps, and management of shipping in the Arctic Ocean.
The Government of Canada is also committed to working with Indigenous Peoples as
full and effective partners in addressing climate change. This includes recognizing the
international climate leadership of Indigenous Peoples. The government is fully
committed to supporting their rightful voices and participation in the UN Framework
Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) process. To this end, Canada was proud to
have played an important part in the creation of the Local Communities and Indigenous
Peoples Platform under the UNFCCC, which aims to strengthen the knowledge,
technologies, practices and efforts of local communities and Indigenous Peoples related
to addressing and responding to climate change and to enhance their engagement in
the UNFCCC process.
The government also championed the creation of the UNFCCC governing body, the
Facilitative Working Group. This body is historic within the UN system, as it sees an
equal number of Party and Indigenous
Peoples’ representatives work together, in
partnership, to steward the work of the platform.
These are important steps towards providing Indigenous
Peoples’ their
rightful place at
the international table and creating the conditions to advance Indigenous perspectives
and solutions to the critical challenges we face. In addition, Canada includes Indigenous
representatives in the development of its negotiation positions at the UNFCCC. In order
UPN, Alm.del - 2021-22 - Bilag 304: Senator Pattersons arktiske rapport
to do so, Canada utilizes a number of mechanisms to engage representatives of
National Indigenous Representative Organizations (NIRs), including Inuit Circumpolar
Council Canada, and seek their input.
In addition to collaborating on the development
of Canada’s negotiating
positions,
Canada has included NIRs as members of its delegations to the UNFCCC and provides
funding to support their participation. Participation on
Canada’s delegation ensures that
Indigenous
Peoples can provide input into Canada’s positions, and that Government
officials can benefit from their perspectives and knowledge.
Canada is committed to supporting increased Indigenous representation at the
International Maritime Organization (IMO). This includes, but is not limited to, facilitating
participation at committee and sub-committee meetings where Arctic-specific issues are
discussed.
Canada is one of ten Signatories to the 2018 Agreement to Prevent Unregulated High
Seas Fishing in the Central Arctic Ocean (CAO Agreement). Indigenous representatives
from the Inuit
Circumpolar Council Canada (ICC) formed an integral part of Canada’s
delegation to the negotiation of the CAO Agreement.
Canada continues to champion and advocate for the inclusion of Indigenous
representatives throughout the ongoing implementation of the Agreement with the nine
other Parties. The Canadian negotiation team included Inuit representatives, which led
to a successful outcome for Canada.
Coast Guard Arctic Region senior officials are members of the Arctic Coast Guard
Forum with participation in the Emergency Prevention, Preparedness and Response sub-
working groups. Inuit, First Nation and Métis communities play an active role conducting
and participating in SAR and ER exercises and collaborate closely with the Association
of Cruise Expeditions, the Arctic and North Atlantic Security and Emergency
Preparedness Network and other international bodies.
DFO has been proactive in supporting Indigenous participation in international events
and forums on oceans, including during the first UN Ocean Conference, in which ICC
participated with financial support from DFO. Indigenous Peoples, and in particular the
ICC, have also been consulted in the elaboration of Canada's approach to the ongoing
negotiation of a UN Agreement on biodiversity of areas beyond national jurisdiction
(BBNJ).
The recognition of the critical role of Indigenous Peoples and local communities (IPLCs)
as stewards of biodiversity and nature is enshrined in the preamble of the
Convention
on Biological Diversity
(CBD) and in its provisions under article 8(j) wherein Parties
have undertaken to respect, preserve and maintain the knowledge, innovations and
practices of Indigenous Peoples and local communities relevant for the conservation of
biological diversity and to promote their wider application with the approval of
UPN, Alm.del - 2021-22 - Bilag 304: Senator Pattersons arktiske rapport
knowledge holders and to encourage equitable sharing of benefits arising out of the use
of biological diversity.
Parties to the
Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna
and Flora
(CITES), a legally binding international agreement, recognize the importance
of international wildlife trade in the livelihoods of Indigenous Peoples and local
communities. Canada has contributed to move this work forward internationally and at
the 18th meeting of the Conference of the Parties (CoP18, Geneva, 2019), the CITES
Parties adopted a Decision to establish a formal working group to consider how to
effectively engage IPLCs in the CITES processes. Much has been accomplished both in
CITES and the CBD. As part of the work programme on article 8(j) of the CBD of the
Parties adopted the Akwé: Kon Voluntary Guidelines and the Rutzolijirisaxik Voluntary
Guidelines for the Repatriation of Traditional Knowledge of Indigenous Peoples and
Local Communities Relevant for the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Biodiversity.
Canada places great importance on the participation of Indigenous Peoples in
Convention processes and has welcomed the participation of national Indigenous
representatives as members of its delegations for the Working Group on Article 8(j) and
all CBD and CITES meetings. Canada has reaffirmed the need for an enhanced
participation of IPLCs and taken a leadership position in discussions on this issue in the
CBD, CITES and other international fora as opportunities arise.
30. THAT THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADA ADDRESS THE URGENT NEED TO
ENHANCE SEARCH AND RESCUE AND EMERGENCY PROTECTION
INFRASTRUCTURE IN THE ARCTIC, AND ENSURE ARCTIC INDIGENOUS
COMMUNITIES ARE INVOLVED IN THE MANAGEMENT OF THIS
INFRASTRUCTURE
The Government of Canada agrees that a changing climate and heightened activity in
the region is likely to increase demand for search and rescue in the Canadian Arctic. In
the Minister of National Defence’s 2019 mandate letter, National Defence is directed to
explore options for responding to incidents in the North and the department will take the
recommendation into consideration as it undertakes this work.
This recommendation aligns well with the 7th goal of the Framework:
“The
Canadian
Arctic and North and its people are safe, secure and well-defended.”
The OPP includes
specific measures to help protect Arctic waters and allow Canada’s
territories to be better equipped to protect their marine environment and coastal
communities. These include: Safety Equipment and Basic Marine Infrastructure, the
Marine Training Program, Northern Low Impact Shipping Corridors, and the Iqaluit
National Aerial Surveillance Program Complex.
Additionally, the OPP is putting into place concrete measures to prevent and better
respond to marine pollution incidents, to address abandoned, wrecked and hazardous
vessels, and to take action to restore coastal habitats and mitigate the impact of day-to-
day vessel operations on marine mammals. Through the OPP, Transport Canada,
UPN, Alm.del - 2021-22 - Bilag 304: Senator Pattersons arktiske rapport
Coast Guard and other partners are undertaking a number of actions to improve marine
safety and enforce responsible shipping practices. These contributions will help protect
Canada’s waters and marine environment;
restore and protect marine ecosystems and
habitats; and improve collaboration with Indigenous and coastal communities.
As mentioned in the response to recommendation 25, an interdepartmental senior
management oversight committee is in place to maintain oversight of activities; facilitate
coordination amongst departments; and provide strategic direction on the OPP.
Coast Guard is committed to a strong search and rescue (SAR) system in Canada,
specifically in the Arctic. As such, Coast Guard has made investments to enhance
maritime SAR capacity across the Arctic based on region-specific maritime risks and by
leveraging local engagement and knowledge, which are the cornerstones of our Risk-
Based Analysis of Maritime SAR Delivery (RAMSARD) review process. The RAMSARD
review process includes engagement with local residents, stakeholders and partners to
assist with risk identification, and the development of mitigation measures for any
unacceptable residual risks.
Coast Guard has also demonstrated its commitment to a strong Arctic SAR system by
augmenting its Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary (Auxiliary) presence in the area. In
2015, the Coast Guard launched a project to assess marine risks and increase the
Auxiliary membership in the Arctic. Since 2015, Coast Guard has continued to increase
funding
to the Auxiliary’s
Arctic operations, and now provides more than one million
dollars a year in dedicated, ongoing Arctic funding to support Auxiliary efforts to
enhance their presence and membership across the Arctic.
The Inuit-Crown Partnership Committee Infrastructure working group has identified key
priorities for infrastructure in support of SAR and environmental response within Inuit
Nunangat, including new small craft harbours for Clyde River and Arctic Bay.
Indigenous SAR community boats have been delivered to several Arctic communities,
including boat sheds and storage facilities for some, and familiarization training for all
recipients. Environmental response caches are located throughout the Arctic and
demonstrations of the equipment is ongoing, with additional training planned in the near
future.
As demonstrated
in Canada’s defence
policy,
Strong, Secure, Engaged,
the
Government of Canada is committed to ensuring the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF)
has the equipment its needs to conduct SAR operations in the Artic. The Royal
Canadian Air Force (RCAF) intends to modernize and improve its footprint and
capabilities in the Arctic. Over the next years, the RCAF will be undertaking numerous
activities to improve the quality of SAR in the Arctic. This includes aircraft,
communications, weather, radar, and space projects. For example, the ongoing multi-
year launch and operation of the Medium Earth Orbit Search and Rescue (MEOSAR)
satellite capability is one of these projects. The Search and Rescue Mission
Management System (SMMS) Replacement Project will leverage the MEOSAR satellite
capability to support CAF and Coast Guard SAR operations.
UPN, Alm.del - 2021-22 - Bilag 304: Senator Pattersons arktiske rapport
National Defence operates and maintains real property assets which can be used for
SAR operations when required. NORAD Forward Operating Locations in Yellowknife,
Iqaluit and Inuvik are readily available when required for operations. National Defence
facilities are made available to other government departments to assist in the fulfillment
of their respective northern, security, and search and rescue mandates. These facilities
include a hangar facility in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, shared with the Royal
Canadian Mounted Police, and facilities in Rankin Inlet, Nunavut, which the Coast
Guard uses as a search and rescue base. National Defence also partnered with the
Government of the Northwest Territories on aerodrome upgrades and improvements to
the Inuvik - Mike Zubko - Airport (CYEV).
National Defence is exploring options in response to the Minister’s Mandate Letter and
will continue to look for partnership opportunities with government departments,
territorial governments, and Indigenous communities, including on shared real property
assets, alternate energy sources, optimization of supply chain and distribution networks,
and fuel storage solutions. Multi-stakeholder involvement will be essential to
overcoming challenges associated with regional isolation, limited transportation options,
seasonal restrictions, and dispersed population.
The CAF also collaborates with partners on search and rescue operations in the Arctic.
Canadian Rangers regularly assist with Ground Search and Rescue operations and
have responded numerous times to assist northern and isolated communities during the
COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, the RCAF works closely with the Civilian Aviation
Search and Rescue Association (CASARA). The RCAF and CASARA collaborate on
several initiatives involving Arctic Indigenous communities, including search and rescue
spotter training, navigation training, infrastructure, Remotely Piloted Aircraft for search
and rescue, and Small Pack Aerial Response Kits. The RCAF manages several air-
droppable, 30-person survival clothing and sleeping kit caches located in Whitehorse,
Inuvik, Yellowknife, Rankin Inlet, Iqaluit, and Resolute Bay. These kits can be used in
any search and rescue or emergency management situation, as required.
In response to the
Minister’s
Mandate Letter, National Defence is exploring options to
enhance continental
defence capabilities and modernize NORAD to bolster Canada’s
domestic defence capabilities. As National Defence continues its work, we are
committed to engaging in honest, open and ongoing dialogue with Indigenous
communities and stakeholders to identify shared priorities. We will also continue to
engage federal partners.
CONCLUSION
The Government of Canada is committed to working
with Canada’s
Arctic and northern
residents to address the persistent challenges and harness the tremendous
opportunities that exist in the region. The Government thanks the Committee for their
UPN, Alm.del - 2021-22 - Bilag 304: Senator Pattersons arktiske rapport
interest and recommendations, and trusts that this response demonstrates the
Government’s
commitment to addressing the
Committee’s
recommendations.