Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge our frontline workers and service providers. They were the heroes who kept us going in difficult times. I also want to speak about the various supports the Government of Nunavut provided during this latest wave of COVID-19.
Mr. Speaker, Nunavut’s municipalities played an essential role in minimizing the spread of COVID-19 in our territory. Four million was allocated to municipalities to provide support for critical local services.
Community stations, which are essential to keeping Nunavummiut informed, received an additional $375,000 for ongoing local radio operations.
In January, the government’s Small Business Support Program offered additional funding of up to $5,000 to subsidize eligible business expenses, and another $625,000 in direct contributions to Nunavut’s Hunters and Trappers Organizations to support harvesters to provide Nunavummiut with healthy country food.
Last, the government allocated $7.7 million toward food security supports and poverty reduction programs.
Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize and thank all Government of Nunavut staff, as well as our territorial and municipal partners, who worked tirelessly over the past two years to provide these much-needed supports.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker.