February 24th, 2025
NDP’s Idlout urges Liberals to extend Inuit Child First Initiative
Read Lori's letter to the minister.
NUNAVUT – On Monday, NDP MP Lori Idlout (Nunavut) wrote to the Minister of Indigenous Services Patty Hajdu to urge an extension or clarity around the future of the Inuit Child First Initiative (ICFI). The letter comes after the minister and Indigenous Services Canada failed to provide any certainty to Nunavummiut about the program.
“The lack of response from Liberal minister Hajdu is both disrespectful and deeply concerning,” said Idlout. “The Liberal must address this issue to ensure that children and families receive the support they need.”
ICFI provides essential services like food voucher support, benefiting more than 15,00 Inuit children. Nearly 42 per cent of children under the age of 18 in Nunavut live in poverty, compared to the national average of 18 per cent. Idlout has been strongly advocating for an extension to ICFI and to reform Nutrition North to help families.
“The well-being of Inuit children cannot be left in limbo,” added Idlout. “A New Democrat government would ensure no child gets left behind.”