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

• CHARS is a world-class scientific facility in the remote Arctic that strengthens Canadian leadership on Arctic issues. It serves as the headquarters for Polar Knowledge Canada and has proven to be a catalyst for science and technology partnership between the Government and domestic and international organizations.
• The construction budget has contributed more than $73 million to an Inuit Benefits Plan through contracting, employment and training. Inuit culture and traditions played a central role in the design of the research station.

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Budget 2022 Investments
• Through Budget 2022, our Government is making critical investments to ensure that the construction project that has led to a fully operational, world class research facility in the Canadian Arctic will support the research needed to address Canada’s evolving priorities in the North including climate change, food security and renewable energy.

• Budget 2022 provides $14.5 million over five years, starting in 2022-23, with targeted investments to close-out the construction of CHARS, and to manage the ongoing operations of the facility.

• These investments will also ensure that CHARS has the right workforce to support the maintenance of this infrastructure, while supporting key economic and environmental priorities. As CHARS is integral to a healthier, more resilient future for the North, this funding will support scientific and knowledge creation activities, while improving economic and education outcomes for Inuit, and all Northerners.