COVID-19 GN Update - April 20, 2020

Premier’s update:

There are still no confirmed or probable cases of COVID-19 in Nunavut.

Today, the total number of people under investigation to date is 453. 252 people are currently under investigation and 201 people are no longer under investigation.

In response to Transport Canada’s recent announcement about mandatory non-surgical masks during air travel, the Government of Nunavut is working with our airlines to ensure that all passengers have access to these masks so they can fly safely.

Today, we are pleased to announce $2 million in funding for our municipalities to cover expenses incurred in response to COVID-19. Things like materials and supplies; additional janitorial and custodial staff; COVID-19-related signage, information and translations; lost revenues from facility closures; increased by-law and enforcement patrols; and increased residential water delivery and garbage pickups should not burden our hamlets. This funding will help ensure that they are able to cover off these unforeseen costs, without having to make sacrifices in other areas.

Nunavummiut, it’s been a terribly sad weekend on a few fronts. I want to send hope, healing and strength to Nova Scotians after the terrible events there. We are all shocked and saddened by this tragedy. In moments like this, it’s obvious that all Canadians mourn together. We stand with you and know you remain Nova Scotia Strong.

• Closer to home, we lost a former Member of the Legislative Assembly and the Mayor of Pangnirtung yesterday. Hezakiah Oshutapik was a strong leader in his community, and his sudden passing has left a great hole. I send his friends and family my sympathies during this difficult time, and wish the people of Pangnirtung strength as they grieve.
• It’s not an easy time. Things are completely different than they were even a few weeks ago. What helps me right now is hope, and the knowledge that we will get through this.
• Despite the difficulties, it is important that we stay strong, that we listen to the advice of medical experts and that we can stay together from a distance. We are all resilient and we are all connected.
• If you are feeling alone or struggling, please reach out to:
  • The Nunavut Kamatsiaqtut Help Line at 1-800-265-3333
  • Crisis Services Canada‘s online chat at www.crisisservicescanada.ca or call/text 1-833-456-4566
  • Isaksimagit Inuusirmi Kataujjiqatigiit Embrace Life Council at 1-866-804-2782 or www.inuusiq.com

• You’re not alone. We’re all in this together.

As part of the Government of Nunavut’s (GN) effort to protect Nunavummiut against the risk of COVID-19, GN Departments are implementing the following:

Department of Health Services

Face covering requirements for air travellers

The Government of Canada is directly that all travellers (with limited exceptions) must have a removable non-medical mask or face covering large enough to cover their mouth and nose during their travel through Canadian airports and in-flight. This directive is in effect as of Monday, April 20, 2020 at 12:00 ET.

Customers who do not have mandatory face covering will not be allowed to travel. Please note that these coverings do not need to be medical masks. Any face covering including a scarf or similar item is acceptable.

Isolation Sites

Those in isolation have access to cable, internet, three meals a day, fresh linens and cleaning supplies. Garbage is picked up daily. These costs are covered by the Government of Nunavut. The GN will pay for diapers, baby formula and feminine products. Guests are responsible to order these products through the provided delivery services, but they will not be charged for the items.

The information package has been updated to include information on grocery orders and take out. Both can be delivered to the hotel. These deliveries and related costs are not covered by the GN.

Volumes

Traveller repatriation summary:

Critical workers travel applications

As of April 19, there are 616 requests, 472 of which are critical worker requests.

Department of Community and Government Services

The Department of Community and Government services is providing an additional $2 million to municipalities to cover expenses related to COVID-19. This additional funding will ensure that hamlets are able to provide unforeseen services in response to the pandemic.

Eligible expenses include but are not limited to the purchase of cleaning materials, hiring additional staff, expenses for additional road clearing, by-law and enforcement patrols, and to cover lost revenues resulting from facility closures.

Municipalities can contact their CGS regional community development office for more information.

Nunavummiut’s health is our shared responsibility! Remember: wash your hands and surfaces, practise social distancing, listen to the advice of health officials, and stay home if you’re sick.