Question Period Note: Arctic and Northern Policy Framework

• We launched the Arctic and Northern Policy Framework with territorial, Indigenous and provincial partners in September 2019, and are now focused on co-development of governance mechanisms to achieve Framework goals and objectives.
• The Government of Canada has made investments in areas that reflect both Framework priorities and the direct advocacy of Framework partners. The Government remains committed to continuing its collaboration with all partners in support of northern economies and the social and political self-determination that underpins long-lasting regional development.
• We will continue to work with key partners to ensure Northerners’ needs are met, and will work with Arctic and Northern Policy Framework partners to schedule a second Leadership Committee meeting to discuss Budget 2022 priorities and finalize regional governance structures.

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If pressed on Northern Affairs Budget 2021 investments
• Through Budget 2021, the Government is making critical investments needed to ensure that Canada’s Arctic and northern communities remain vibrant and resilient. New investments reflect the Arctic and Northern Policy Framework partners’ priorities and seek to address a number of persistent issues.
• Budget 2021 included $308.4 million in targeted investments to Northern Affairs for implementation of the Arctic and Northern Policy Framework:
o $163.4 million for the Nutrition North Program;
o $8 million supporting Aurora College’s transition into a polytechnic university;
o $50 million in infrastructure investments towards housing in Northwest Territories ($25 million) and Nunavut ($25 million);
o $40.4 million supporting the planning of hydroelectricity and grid interconnection projects;
o $25 million supporting Yukon’s climate change priorities; and
o $21.6 million to support implementing the Blue Economy Strategy.

If pressed on whole-of-government approach
• Given the unique challenges in the region, our ability to make meaningful progress for Arctic and northern communities requires a whole-of-government approach.
• In this Budget, substantial northern investments were made across federal portfolios, including to implement the Arctic and Northern Policy Framework:
o food security, health and wellness;
o early learning and child care;
o critical infrastructure including clean energy, housing, transportation, and broadband;
o Northern post-secondary education;
o scientific research and mapping;
o Northern travel costs; and
o capacity and resources for marine and safety.