Question Period Note: Canadian High Arctic Research Station (CHARS)

• The Canadian High Arctic Research Station was built by Canadians to serve the world, and engage Northerners in cutting-edge science and technology.

• The construction budget has contributed more than $73 million to an Inuit Benefits Plan through contracting, employment and training.

• Polar Knowledge Canada is now operating this world-class research centre in Cambrige Bay, Nunavut.

• Ms. Jennifer C. Hubbard has been appointed as the new President of the organization and four appointments have been made to the Board of Directors, including Mr. Joe Kunuk as Chairperson.

Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada is leading the construction of the Canadian High Arctic Research Station (CHARS) campus in Cambridge Bay, Nunavut, including research and storage facilities, and additional housing to accommodate both staff members and visiting researchers.

Polar Knowledge Canada operates the CHARS campus, and is responsible for advancing Canada's knowledge of the Arctic and strengthening Canadian leadership in polar science and technology.

The CHARS campus is currently largely operational with the testing and verifications of the systems and equipment expected to be complete in 2020.

Due to the global pandemic, the CHARS campus, will remain closed to the public for the remainder of the 2020 field season and throughout Fall 2020 in accordance with Public Health guidance. All field research and in-person engagement activities at the CHARS campus are currently suspended.

On November 10, 2020, the Minister of Northern Affairs, the Honourable Daniel Vandal, announced the appointment of a new President & CEO of Polar Knowledge Canada, Ms. Jennifer C. Hubbard, and four appointments to the organization's Board of Directors. The Board of Directors consists of Mr. Joe Kunuk as Chairperson as well as Dr. Karen Barnes, Ms. Kimberly Fairman, and Ms. Jacqueline Pepper-Journal. All appointements are for a period of five years.

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