Trudeau Commits $130M To Support Northern Territories And Address health, economic, and transportation needs
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to evolve, it is more important than ever to make sure that all Canadians have access to the quality food and essential health care they need. That is why the Government of Canada is working with partners, including territorial governments, to address the unique needs of Northerners.
“No Canadian should ever have to worry about where to get their food or how to receive essential health care services. That is why we are working with the territories and Indigenous partners to address the unique needs of northern communities as they respond to COVID-19. Together, we will make sure that Northerners can access the food, supplies, health care, and services they need during this challenging time.”The Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada
Today Prime Minister Trudeau announced additional support to address immediate health, economic, and transportation needs in the North. These measures will:
- transfer $72.6 million to the governments of Yukon, Northwest Territories, and Nunavut to support their COVID-19 health and social services preparations and response. This funding will help territories address the critical priorities they identified to minimize the spread of the virus.
- Provide up to $17.3 million to the governments of Yukon, Northwest Territories, and Nunavut to support northern air carriers. This funding, in partnership with investments by the territorial governments, will ensure the continued supply of food, medical supplies, and other essential goods and services to remote and fly-in communities.
- make available $15 million in non-repayable support for businesses in the territories to help address the impacts of COVID-19. This support will assist businesses with operating costs not already covered by other Government of Canada measures.
- provide an additional $25 million to Nutrition North Canada to increase subsidies so families can afford much-needed nutritious food and personal hygiene products.
Northerners are also receiving help through the Harvesters Support Grant, which was developed in direct collaboration with Indigenous partners. The grant helps to improve food security by increasing access to traditional foods and alleviating the high costs associated with traditional hunting and harvesting activities.
“Northern communities, in particular those in remote and fly-in only parts of the country, are uniquely vulnerable during this crisis. Communities are incredibly resilient and full of solutions and innovative ideas, and I want to recognize their strength. These measures are the product of vital discussions with northern and Indigenous partners and will ensure access to food and to essential supplies.
They will also ensure vital economic support during this pandemic. This is only the beginning. We will continue to work with Indigenous partners to identify and deliver on their specific needs and to make sure no one is left behind.”The Hon. Marc Miller, Minister of Indigenous Services
“In recognition of the unique challenges of the northern business community, the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency will immediately make available $15 million in funding, including direct support for ongoing costs incurred by northern small- and medium-sized businesses, in order to help them continue to play their vital role in northern communities.
CanNor’s strong relationships with territorial governments best position the Agency to ensure relief efforts are complementary and that funding gets to the businesses that need it the most.”The Hon. Mélanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages, and Minister responsible for the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency
The funding announced today builds on both the $500 million provided to provinces and territories and the $305 million provided to Indigenous communities, as part of the Government of Canada’s response to COVID-19.
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