GN, NTI unveil revised policy to promote Inuit, northern businesses

After four years of consultations, the Nunavut government and Nunavut Tunngavik Inc. have unveiled changes to the policy meant to give a leg up to Inuit- and Nunavut-owned firms competing for government contracts.

The updated Nunavummi Nangminiqaqtunik Ikajuutipolicywill come into effect in April2017.

During the next year, "the business community will have an opportunity to look at the policy and learn how to bid for government contracts," said MonicaEll-Kanayuk, Minister of Economic Development and Transportation.

New penalties

The policy includes a new penalty formula for contractorsthat don't meet required Inuit labour levels.

"The penalty will be that you may not bid in future contracts," said Ell-Kanayuk.

These penalties apply to all types of contracts, not just construction projects.

NTI presidentCathy Towtongie said the policy will give "more authority and some teeth if Inuit firms feel that they have not been treated fairly."

The new policy also established an appeal processunder the jurisdiction of an independent NNI tribunal, with five members appointed by the GN and two appointees from NTI.

Read more about the changes on the website of the Department of Economic Development and Transportation.

Find the full policy here.