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Ottawa commits an additional $30.8 million in Covid-19 aid for Nunavut

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced $30.8 million in additional Covid-19 aid for Nunavut on Tuesday.

“No Canadian should ever have to worry about where to get their food or how to receive essential health care services. That is why we are working with the territories and Indigenous partners to address the unique needs of northern communities as they respond to COVID-19,” Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Tuesday.

This funding will go toward health and social services preparations and response.

Another $25 million will be injected into Nutrition North Canada to make nutritious food and personal hygiene products more affordable in all three territories.

The federal government is also setting aside $15 million in non-repayable support for Northern businesses as a result of the Covid-19 crisis. This aid, available through Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency (CanNor), is designated for operating costs for already covered by previously announced measures.

As well, $17.3 million will be divided among the governments of Nunavut, Yukon and the Northwest Territories to support beleaguered Northern air carriers.

“This funding, in partnership with investments by the territorial governments, will ensure the continued supply of food, medical supplies, and other essential goods and services to remote and fly-in communities,” a Government of Canada news release stated.