Kuujjuaq – March 23, 2016 – The Makivvik welcomed yesterday’s federal budget announcement of $50 million in new funding over 2 years to address the shortage of housing in the Nunavik region of Quebec. People of Nunavik have been suffering for years because of severely overcrowding conditions. Makivvik has lobbied the Federal Government for additional funds to alleviate the housing shortage without success until yesterday’s Federal announcement. The announcement is also an important first step in renewed partnership with the federal government in which Makivvik will showcase and share with other communities its construction model as it builds more houses for its communities, with the federal government’s support.
“What an important day this is for the Inuit of Nunavik. The housing crisis and the social problems that come with it are getting worse every year, but the $50 million dollars in new money to build houses in Nunavik is a first step in the right direction. We can only build on that,” said Makivvik President Jobie Tukkiapik.
Yesterday’s funding announcement in conjunction with continued work of the tripartite working group, with strong political oversight from both the federal and Quebec governments, will be key to addressing the housing shortage in Nunavik in both the short and long term.
“This additional federal investment in Nunavik housing will allow our young people to take advantage of on-the-job training and employment opportunities.” said Tukkiapik.
For more information contact:
William Tagoona
Communications Coordinator and Media Relations
wtagoona@makivik.org
819-964-2925
Makivvik is the development corporation mandated to manage the heritage funds of the Inuit of Nunavik provided for in the James Bay and Northern Québec Agreement. Makivvik’s role includes the administration and investment of these funds and the promotion of economic growth.