Premier Savikataaq reacts to federal TB apology
Statement
Premier Savikataaq reacts to federal TB apology
Premier Joe Savikataaq today released the following statement:
“The legacy of Tuberculosis (TB) among Inuit has created generations of pain, trauma and grief. In Nunavut, nearly every family has been negatively affected by the federal government’s treatment of our TB patients in the 1940s, 1950s and1960s.
The mere fact that so many of our loved ones died alone and were never brought home for proper goodbyes remains raw and continues to be inexcusable.
On behalf of the Government of Nunavut, I thank the Prime Minister for delivering this apology, and for the federal government’s admission of accountability. However, the very real fact remains that Nunavut Inuit are still hurting from this dark period, and continue to suffer disproportionately from TB.
It is crucial that the Government of Canada help us eradicate this disease now – through increased funding and capacity for health programming and treatment, adequate housing, community wellness, education, and trauma response. We cannot do this alone, and we need to realize this goal, together.”
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Media Contact:
Cate Macleod
Press Secretary
Office of Premier Savikataaq
867-975-5059
@email