The Honourable Peter Penashue and the Honourable Eva Aariak, Premier of Nunavut, hold bilateral meeting

Ottawa, ON, February 13, 2013 – Today the Honourable Peter Penashue, Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs and President of the Queen’s Privy Council for Canada, and the Honourable Eva Aariak, Premier of Nunavut, held a bilateral meeting.

Minister Penashue and Premier Aariak discussed numerous issues of shared importance between the government of Canada and the government of Nunavut, including northern development, natural resources and the economy.

“I was glad to meet with Premier Aariak today to talk about some of the growing opportunities in Canada’s north, and to hear her thoughts on some of the issues facing Nunavut,” said Minister Penashue. “Our government is committed to maintaining a strong relationship with the provinces and territories, and we will continue to work with Nunavut to foster economic growth, create jobs, and collaborate in areas of mutual interest.”

“Our government recognizes the opportunities and challenges that Canada’s northern regions present, and I look forward to further discussions with Premier Aariak about how our governments can work together to help Nunavut take advantage of  its vast potential.”

"Minister Penashue understands well the economic and social needs of northern and Aboriginal communities,” said Premier Aariak. “We had a good discussion about the constructive solutions that will enable Nunavut to be a driver of a stronger Canada moving forward, including the investments in our people and our infrastructure that will produce results.”

“Nunavut was born from a historic land claim, covering one fifth of Canada, signed 20 years ago. At this important anniversary, our territory finds itself at a critical crossroads. We are working hard with the Government of Canada to arrive at a new federal-territorial partnership to ensure the progress that we have fought so hard to achieve is not lost. I welcome Minister Penashue’s insights and his commitment to building that relationship.”

For more information (media only):

  • Jonathan McDaniel
    Press Secretary
    Office of the Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs
    and President of the Queen’s Privy Council for Canada
    Tel.: 613-943-1838
  • Emily Woods
    Press Secretary
    Office of Premier Eva Aariak
    Tel: 867-975-5059