Premier P.J. Akeeagok today issued the following statement regarding Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s intention to resign:
“I would like to thank Prime Minister Justin Trudeau for his contributions to Nunavut and to all of Canada.
Prime Minister Trudeau will be forever be recognized as the leader who signed the Nunavut Lands and Resources Devolution Agreement, transferring over two million square kilometers of land and water to Nunavummiut, ensuring that decisions about our natural resources and fresh waters can be made at home.
As Premier of Nunavut, I have had the honour of working alongside Prime Minister Trudeau and his government on numerous initiatives, from $10-a-day daycare to Arctic sovereignty and security.
Prime Minister Trudeau demonstrated his deep commitment to the North; visiting Nunavut ‘s capital and remote communities on several occasions, sometimes with his children.
Since his election in 2015, Prime Minister Trudeau has prioritized the needs of Inuit in our territory, with a strong emphasis on reconciliation. I am particularly grateful for his unwavering support in recognizing the important work of the Qikiqtani Truth Commission and for offering a formal apology on behalf of Canada for the injustices suffered by Inuit.
Under Prime Minister Trudeau’s leadership, Nunavut became home to Tallurutiup Imanga National Marine Conservation Area and Tuvaijuittuq Marine Protected Area, together safeguarding over 425,000 square kilometers of marine and coastal territory.
While we sometimes differed on how to address key issues, we shared many of the same priorities, such as tackling the housing crisis.
I wish Prime Minister Trudeau the very best in the future and look forward to working with his successor on Nunavut’s priorities. On behalf of all Nunavummiut, I extend my deepest gratitude to Prime Minister Trudeau for his years of leadership, service, and sacrifice and commitment to the North.”