Elaboration of the Arctic Policy Framework - The Québec government will ensure that Nunavik is included and respect for the Plan Nord

QUÉBEC CITY, Nov. 17, 2017 /CNW Telbec/ - Minister of Energy and Natural Resources and Minister responsible for the Plan Nord Pierre Moreau notes the launching of the elaboration of the Government of Canada's Arctic Policy Framework announced Wednesday by federal Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Carolyn Bennett and federal Minister of Foreign Affairs Chrystia Freeland.

The Québec government intends to collaborate with all of the partners involved in the elaboration of this federal initiative and will ensure that it complements the initiatives already undertaken pursuant to the Plan Nord. The Québec government therefore expects the Arctic Policy Framework to acknowledge the scope of the Plan Nord and to align itself with Québec's policy directions and priorities.

In this context, Québec wishes, first, to ensure that the federal government will recognize the entire territory of Nunavik, Québec's territory north of the 55th parallel, and that the region will be eligible for all federal funding programs devoted to northern or Arctic territory. The inclusion of Nunavik must occur in a spirit of respect for the areas of jurisdiction of the two levels of government and Québec's territorial integrity.

The Plan Nord stems from a partnership that recognizes the challenges that northern development poses and ensures the adherence of the communities concerned. It consolidates Québec's priority initiatives in the realm of northern development by the year 2035.

Quotation

"I am delighted that the Government of Canada is interested in the needs of Canada's Arctic territory and its inhabitants, including Nunavik. However, it is important that the proposed Arctic Policy Framework respect the Québec government's policy directions and priorities pertaining to northern development included in the Plan Nord and that the federal government offer Québec adequate funding."

Pierre Moreau, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources and Minister responsible for the Plan Nord

The Plan Nord

The Plan Nord is intended to develop the mineral, forest, energy, social, cultural and tourism potential of Québec's northern territory. It is creating jobs and wealth both for northern communities and Quebecers overall, in a spirit of respect for northern communities and the environment. By harmonizing the economic, social and environmental facets on which the Plan Nord hinges, the Québec government wishes to make it a reference in the realm of responsible, sustainable northern development and a unifying project for Québec society. The Société du Plan Nord is responsible for its implementation.

Related link:

Société du Plan Nord: plannord.gouv.qc.ca

SOURCE Cabinet du ministre de l'Énergie et des Ressources naturelles