KITIKMEOT INUIT ASSOCIATION AND GOVERNMENT OF NUNAVUT SIGN MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING FOR COOPERATION ON GRAYS BAY ROAD AND PORT PROJECT
For Immediate Release
KITIKMEOT INUIT ASSOCIATION AND GOVERNMENT OF NUNAVUT SIGN MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING FOR COOPERATION ON GRAYS BAY ROAD AND PORT PROJECT
Cambridge Bay, Nunavut, July 9, 2016
Today, Premier Peter Taptuna, on behalf of Minister Ell-Kanayuk, Economic Development and Transportation, Government of Nunavut and Kitikmeot Inuit Association (KIA) President Stanley Anablak signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) formalizing their cooperation as co-proponents of the Grays Bay Road and Port (GBRP) Project.
The GBRP Project, if completed, would create a 227 km all-season road linking the northern terminus of the Tibbitt-Contwoyto Winter Road to a deep-water port at Grays Bay on the Northwest Passage.
The MoU signed today focuses on the preparation of the GBRP Project Proposal, which will be submitted to the Nunavut Impact Review Board and other authorities. In addition, the MoU covers a number of related issues including project governance (via a KIA-Government of Nunavut (GN) lead working group and management committee), communications, contracting processes, and funding matters.
"The potential benefits of the GBRP Project are far-reaching. A deep water port in western Nunavut will both reduce the high cost of living and stimulate economic activity in the region of Kitikmeot. This project will also create jobs and business opportunities for Nunavummiut. I am very pleased to sign this MoU today."
Hon. Peter Taptuna, Premier of Nunavut
"I believe that the collaboration between the GN and KIA on this MoU sets the standard for how responsible development in Canada’s north should proceed. As co-proponent of the GBRP Project, KIA’s participation will help guarantee that the project is developed in a manner that is consistent with Inuit values, including ensuring respect for the environment and the wildlife that we cherish."
Stanley Anablak, President - Kitikmeot Inuit Association
For further information, please contact: Paul Emingak
Executive Director
Kitikmeot Inuit Association
(867) 983-2458
Yasmina Pepa
Chief, Public Affairs
Office of Premier Taptuna
Government of Nunavut
(867) 222-0961