NR 02-07 NNI ENG Cabinet Decision.doc
(April 9, 2002 – Iqaluit, Nunavut) Cabinet decisions announced last week relating to the GN’s NNI Contracting Policy show that at least some Ministers are more interested in keeping big non-Inuit companies happy than supporting genuine Nunavut businesses, according to Nunavut Tunngavik Inc. (NTI).
The NNI Policy concluded in spring 2000 gave non-Inuit companies that have operated for many years in Nunavut but that do not qualify as Nunavut Businesses under the Policy a grace period of 2 years to qualify. That grace period ended on April 1. Although a recent GN-NTI review of the NNI Policy recommended that this so-called grandfathering provision be enforced, the GN Cabinet unilaterally approved a 1 year extension of the grace period.
The Cabinet has surrendered to lobbying by non-Inuit companies that were given a chance but haven’t bothered taking the steps to qualify them as genuine Nunavut firms, said NTI President Cathy Towtongie. Why should Beneficiaries care? she asked. Because over the coming year these big companies will continue to receive preferences for contract bidding that they don’t deserve. That will disadvantage genuine Nunavut firms, and may cost them contracts. That’s not fair.
NTI’s leadership is also angry about the process that was followed. Under the Land Claims Agreement and the NNI Policy itself, the GN has a clear obligation to consult with NTI before changing the Policy, said Towtongie. By taking these steps, the GN has violated the Land Claims Agreement. That is completely unacceptable. Beneficiaries look to NTI to defend the Land Claims Agreement against violations like this, and we intend to do so. The Cabinet’s disregard for the Land Claims Agreement is very surprising.
Further, NTI is astonished and disappointed that the Cabinet completely ignored its responsibilities under the Clyde River Protocol, the agreement between the GN and NTI that was concluded to support a strong partnership between them.
Now that the Cabinet has decided to go ahead despite NTI’s call for consultations, NTI’s Board will be reviewing its options for defending the Claim.
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For further information:
Alan R. Vigoda
Director of Communications
Nunavut Tunngavik Inc.
Iqaluit, NU
Tel: (867) 975-4900
Fax: (867) 975-4943 Paul Irngaut
Executive Liaison & Public Relations Advisor
Nunavut Tunngavik Inc.
Iqaluit, NU
