Iqaluit, Nunavut (October 11, 2024) – In support of the Government of Nunavut’s (GN) Katujjiluta mandate priority, Aging with Dignity, Premier P.J. Akeeagok today announced that five communities will receive specialized vans this fall to provide Elders with improved mobility and access to community and government services. The five communities are Iqaluit, Cambridge Bay, Coral Harbour, Pangnirtung, and Rankin Inlet.
“We heard Elders loud and clear: access to reliable transportation to health appointments, the grocery store and events is an issue that impacts aging Nunavummiut,” said Premier Akeeagok. “These mobility vans will improve the lives of Elders by giving them the means to get to where they need to go safely. I look forward to seeing this initiative expanded to more communities across Nunavut.”
In May 2024, the Department of Executive and Intergovernmental Affairs (EIA) called for expressions of interest from territorial, regional or community organizations that had the capacity and ability to administer the Elder van initiative in up to five communities.
Following a June 2024 information session, four groups submitted proposals. A selection committee of senior officials chose a group led by Northern Future Skills Development, which partnered with Arctic Training Ltd. and Caribou Cabs.
Five wheelchair-accessible vans are on the ground in, or on their way to, Nunavut on the 2024 sealift. The vans will serve a dual purpose in each community, both as a way for Elders to get around and for communities to gain more skilled drivers.