Through the Canada’s Safe Restart Agreement, which was authorized by the federal government last week, Nunavut will receive up to $18.9 million. This federal support includes a cash transfer of $12.1 million, and $5.7 million for testing and personal protective equipment, announced Health Minister George Hickes, during the July 20 press conference.
$1.1 million will also be provided in sick leave benefits for Nunavummiut through the program.
More details about when and how the money will be received will be provided soon, Hickes stated.
“We are excited to work with our federal and territorial colleagues on the next steps for supports specific to the North,” he said.
Launch of ShopNunavut.ca
Minister of Economic Development and Transportation David Akeeagok announced the launch of ShopNunavut.ca. Its aim is to aid the territory’s small business and tourism community amid the Covid-19 pandemic by providing a one-stop shop.
This is a platform highlighting local services, products and experiences that are available in-territory to Nunavummiut. This site has been launched as part of a recovery and resiliency plan for Tourism and Cultural industries, said Akeeagok.
It has been developed in partnership with Travel Nunavut, Destination Nunavut and Nunavut Economic Development Association, and will remain active until the end of 2020.
ShopNunavut.ca provides information on Nunavut’s accommodations, restaurants, tour operators, outfitters, artists and artisans. It also provides access to StaycationNunavut.ca, a website showcasing tourism opportunities in the territory and resources for planning trips.
Starting July 27, Nunavummiut may participate in weekly contests on ShopNunavut Facebook page and Instagram. Each week the challenges will vary and prizes will be awarded in each community.
“I encourage all residents to take advantage of this opportunity and use ShopNunavut.ca to buy local, eat local and take part in the local tourism activities that are available,” said Akeeagok.
Other Updates
There are still two positive presumptive cases of Covid-19 at the Mary River Mine. The confirmatory test results are expected to arrive later this week from a southern lab.
The number of people tested for Covid-19 in Nunavut to date is 1629. Presently, 179 individuals are being investigated for Covid-19.