Mr. Speaker, Katujjiluta identifies Elders and “aging with dignity in Nunavut” as a key priority area. Our mandate promises to develop a comprehensive Elder and senior care strategy with broad input from Elders, families, communities, and partners.
I’m proud to announce, Mr. Speaker, work is underway towards a Strategic Action Plan for Elders in Nunavut. We have contracted Iqaluit consultant Mary Wilman to work in tandem with the Iqaluit-based company Lichen Consulting to do this review. We aim to complete the new framework by December. Elders groups are being engaged at regional gatherings in North Qikiqtaaluk, South Qikiqtaaluk, the Kivalliq, the Kitikmeot, and Ottawa. The first consultation was held in Rankin Inlet, February 14 and 15.
Mr. Speaker, this engagement is being delivered in Inuktut and is facilitated with the support of Elder advisors Ilisapi Davidee Angingmiuq, Miriam Aglukkaq, and Rosemary Sandy.
The next consultation will be:
• March 8 and 9 in Cambridge Bay
• The week of March 20 in Pond Inlet
• April 18 and 19 in Iqaluit
• The week of May 8 in Ottawa
While we work to open long-term care centres to bring our elders home, we know there are also gaps in service and supports for our elders who are here now. This strategy will look to coordinate existing supports in communities and help Elders navigate programs and services delivered by the GN, Inuit organizations, municipalities, and non-profits.
Nunavummiut who are aging deserve to see improvements in their daily experience. This starts long before the need for specialized care. Guided by our Katujjiluta mandate, our government will work to ensure our parents and grandparents are able to age in comfort and safety at home.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker.